Pak senate committee on sports to probe ‘contentious’ England tour-Test selection

LAHORE – The Pakistan Senate Standing Committee on Sports has summoned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials and selectors over the ‘injustice in selection’ of the Test squad currently touring England.

Pakistan’s 17-man Test squad, announced during the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka last month, has come under severe criticism from former and current players.

It …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pak senate committee on sports to probe ‘contentious’ England tour-Test selection.

World Cup 2010: Schweinsteiger accuses Argentina of being ‘disrespectful’

LONDON – German soccer star, Bastian Schweinsteiger, has cranked up the tension ahead of Germany’s quarter-final against Argentina with a blistering attack on Diego Maradona and his players.

According to The Sun, the midfield star blasted the Argy stars for having ‘no respect’ and accused their fans of spoiling the tournament.

“The Argentinians provoke and …. Original source  : World Cup 2010: Schweinsteiger accuses Argentina of being ‘disrespectful’.

‘Absolutely no excuse for below par fielding performances’, says Bari

LAHORE – Former Pakistan wicketkeeper and Pakistan Cricket Board COO Wasim Bari has said that there should be absolutely no excuse for below par fielding performances, especially given the standard of the outfields in the modern game.

Dropped catches and poor ground fielding have become the norm for Pakistan teams over the years, and this was [..] Read the original article: here.

With Torres misfiring, Llorente’s World Cup debut proves decisive in Spain win over Portugal

Llorente’s WCup debut proves decisive for Spain

CAPE TOWN, South Africa – Fernando Llorente’s World Cup debut for Spain played a big part in turning around the team’s fortunes against Portugal.
Llorente replaced the fading Fernando Torres in the 59th minute Tuesday, and his introduction changed the dynamic of Spain’s attack. Four minutes later, David Villa scored …. Original article  : With Torres misfiring, Llorente’s World Cup debut proves decisive in Spain win over Portugal.

Injured Afridi confident of playing opening T20 against Australia

LONDON – Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi is confident that he will overcome “a small muscle rupture in his side” to play the opening Twenty20 international against Australia in Birmingham on July 5.

Afridi suffered the injury during his team’s warm-up match against Kent in Canterbury.

“I have to play against Australia in the Twenty20 matches … Read more >>>.

Windies pacer Roach fined 50 per cent of match fee for ICC Code of Conduct breach

DUBAI – West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach has been fined 50 per cent of his match fee for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during his team’s third Test against South Africa.

Roach pleaded guilty to a Level 1 offence and accepted the proposed sanction from Jeff Crowe of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC …. Source  : Windies pacer Roach fined 50 per cent of match fee for ICC Code of Conduct breach.

Steyn fined 100 per cent of match fee for ICC Code of Conduct breach

DUBAI – South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn has been fined 100 per cent of his match fee for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during his country’s third Test match against the West Indies.

Steyn pleaded guilty to spitting in the direction of opposition player Sulieman Benn during the third day of the match in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

NSW all-rounder O’Keefe gets shock Oz team call-up

SYDNEY – Unheralded New South Wales all-rounder Stephen O’Keefe has received a shock call-up as the replacement for injured spinner Nathan Hauritz in the Australian squad for the Test series against Pakistan in England.

Considered a surprise selection for the Australia A team’s recent series against Sri Lanka A in Queensland, O’Keefe impressed national selectors enough …. Source  : NSW all-rounder O’Keefe gets shock Oz team call-up.

Cricket Australia may again push for Howard nomination for ICC role

MELBOURNE – Cricket Australia has said that it may resubmit the name of former Prime Minister John Howard as a candidate for president-elect of the International Cricket Council.

According to Fox Sports and The Australian, Cricket Australia will call an emergency board meeting within a week to discuss the ICC’s refusal to accept Howard and [..] Read the original article: here.

Howard rejected because he was a backbencher and could be provocative: Roebuck

SYDNEY – Noted cricket columnist Peter Roebuck has said that “no one emerges with the slightest credit from the debacle” involving the ICC board’s rejection of John Howard’s vice-presidency bid.

In a front-page commentary for the Sydney Morning Herald, Roebuck further said: “As far as other ICC nations were concerned, the nomination was provocative. They regard …. Original source  : Howard rejected because he was a backbencher and could be provocative: Roebuck.

Speed says Howard was rejected because he would foil the ICC saboteurs

MELBOURNE – Former ICC President Malcolm Speed has said the decision of the ICC governing board to reject the nomination of former prime minister John Howard is a disgrace and an insult to both Australia and New Zealand.

Speed said that Howard was not rejected because of his lack of experience as a cricket administrator, or …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Speed says Howard was rejected because he would foil the ICC saboteurs.

Teammates of old, Kaka and Luis Fabiano linking up perfectly for Brazil at World Cup

Kaka, Luis Fabiano connecting for Brazil at WCup

JOHANNESBURG – A quick look. A pass. A goal. Another assist from Kaka and another goal by Luis Fabiano for Brazil.
The pair have come up big for the five-time champions at the World Cup, teaming up like they did when they played for Brazilian club Sao Paulo before …. Source article  : Teammates of old, Kaka and Luis Fabiano linking up perfectly for Brazil at World Cup.

Kris Versteeg Traded To Toronto Maple Leafs

TORONTO, CANADA (GaeaTimes.com)- Ice hockey winger Kris Versteeg was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs by Chicago Blackhawks on Wednesday night. The 24 year old player joined the Maple Leafs with regard to a five player deal according to which forwards Viktor Stalberg, Chris DiDomenico and Philippe Paradis went to Chicago Blackhawks and along … Read : Kris Versteeg Traded To Toronto Maple Leafs.

Roger Federer comes up short again in second straight Grand Slam

Federer falters again in Grand Slam quarters
WIMBLEDON, England – After back-to-back quarterfinal losses at the French Open and Wimbledon, Roger Federer is suddenly no longer the Grand Slam certainty he used to be.
For the first time in eight years, Federer won’t be striding onto the Centre Court grass on Sunday afternoon for the …. Original source  : Roger Federer comes up short again in second straight Grand Slam.

Messi seeks Ten Cate’s help to end goal drought

PRETORIA – Determined to end his goal drought, Argentine star Lionel Messi has sought the advice of his one-time coach at Barcelona, Henk Ten Cate, ahead of a quarter-final clash against Germany in the World Cup football Friday.

The 55-year-old Dutchman, Ten Cate, who was Frank Rijkaard’s assistant at Barcelona for three years till 2006, attended …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Messi seeks Ten Cate’s help to end goal drought.

Brazil mulls injury and Schweinsteiger warns Germany as World Cup pauses for rest day

Teams prepare as WCup pauses for rest day
JOHANNESBURG – The World Cup finally paused for breath with its first rest day, giving the eight remaining teams two days to focus on quarterfinal preparations.

European champion Spain is hitting form in time for Saturday’s match against Paraguay, with David Villa tied for the tournament scoring lead. Germany … Read more : Brazil mulls injury and Schweinsteiger warns Germany as World Cup pauses for rest day.

Netherlands favourites against Brazil, says Henk Ten Cate

PRETORIA – Dutch club Ajax Amsterdam’s former coach Henk Ten Cate feels that the Netherlands can upset five-time champions Brazil in the quarterfinal of the World Cup in Port Elizabeth Friday.

“At this stage of the World Cup, all teams have chances. We Dutch are optimists and we believe in our team. We have a good …. Original source  : Netherlands favourites against Brazil, says Henk Ten Cate.

Pawar takes over as ICC president (Second Lead)

SINGAPORE – Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar Thursday took over the reins of the International Cricket Council (ICC), becoming the second Indian after Jagmohan Dalmiya to head the world cricket body.

The ICC president designate, who is former Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief, formally took charge at the ICC annual conference week …. Read the original article  : Pawar takes over as ICC president (Second Lead).

Howard vows to fight on for ICC vice-presidency

SYDNEY – Former Australian Prime Minister John Howard has vowed to fight on to become world cricket vice-president despite his embarrassing rejection by Africa and Asia.

Ex-ICC chief Malcolm Speed has described the rejection as a “disgrace and insult” to Australian and New Zealand cricket.

Howard was due to fly home from Singapore after African and Asian … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Howard vows to fight on for ICC vice-presidency.

Patel’s lawyers plead for mercy ahead of sentencing

BRISBANE – Lawyers representing ‘Dr. Death’ Jayant Patel, the Indian-origin surgeon accused of manslaughter, have appealed to the Supreme Court of Brisbane to show mercy to their client during sentencing later today.

The Brisbane Times quoted defence lawyers as asking Judge Byrne to allow Patel his freedom by wholly suspending his jail term, citing his “virtual [..] Read the original article: here.

Damon Evans Apologizes While Courtney Fuhrmann Keeps Mum

ATLANTA (GaeaTimes.com)- It seems that Damon Evans is really sorry for his late Wednesday night actions as the Athletic director apologized not only in a press conference on Thursday but also called up the president of University of Georgia Michael Adams to apologize for the shame he had brought to the university with … Read more »».

F-One legends were fearless, feels Jenson

LONDON – Formula One champion Jenson Button believes that F1’s golden oldies were more fearless and braver than his current grid rivals.

The world champ will get behind the wheel of hero Alain Prost’s 1986 McLaren car at this weekend’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.

And, he admits it must have taken nerves of steel to have raced …. Source  : F-One legends were fearless, feels Jenson.

Capello urging FA to give him a chance to sort England out

LONDON – Coach Fabio Capello is urging the Football Association (FA) to give him the chance to ‘put things right’ with England.

According to The Sun, the Italian is convinced he can revitalise and re-energise the team for the Euro 2012 campaign.

A source close to Capello said: “For Fabio there is a real feeling of unfinished …. Read the original article  : here.

World Cup opponents remain wary of Spain’s offense, but defense is gelling at right time

Spain defense proving hard to breach at World Cup

POTCHEFSTROOM, South Africa – Already wary of Spain’s offense, opponents better beware of its defense, too.
The European champions conceded just two goals in the group stage at the World Cup, and neutralized Portugal winger Cristiano Ronaldo in a 1-0 win on Tuesday. Under coach Vicente Del Bosque, … Read more : World Cup opponents remain wary of Spain’s offense, but defense is gelling at right time.

Diamondbacks turn to Gibson after booting GM Byrnes, manager Hinch

Byrnes, Hinch booted in Diamondbacks shakeup

PHOENIX – The one-time rising young genius of baseball and his youthful hand-picked manager got the boot in Arizona.
General manager Josh Byrnes, so coveted three years ago that the Diamondbacks gave him a whopping eight-year contract extension, was fired Thursday night along with manager A.J. Hinch, whose team was 34 …. Read the original article  : here.

Ethnic Indians do Malaysia proud in karate championship

KUALA LUMPUR – Several Malaysian Indian women have done well in the Feminine Cup karate championships now underway in France.

Shakila Salni Jeffry Krishnan achieved a rare honour for Malaysian karate when she was selected to represent an international Rest of the World Team in an exhibition match against France last weekend.
Shakila had impressed …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ethnic Indians do Malaysia proud in karate championship.

He was wrong, says wife of linesman who disallowed Britain goal

LONDON – The wife of linesman Mauricio Espinosa, who wrongly disallowed British footballer Frank Lampard’s goal against Germany in the World Cup, says she “couldn’t believe his decision”.

“We knew it was a goal. I couldn’t believe his decision,” said Sandra Perez Espinosa.
She wept and shouted at her TV: “No, no, Mauricio, you’re wrong!” …. Original source  : He was wrong, says wife of linesman who disallowed Britain goal.

Hurt for one World Cup and on the bench for another, Villar shines in third opportunity

Paraguay goalie making up for lost time at WCup

PRETORIA, South Africa – After spending one World Cup on the bench and all but seven minutes of another on the sidelines with an injury, Paraguay goalkeeper Justo Villar is making quite an impression with his third chance.
Paraguay conceded just one goal in its first four games … Read more : Hurt for one World Cup and on the bench for another, Villar shines in third opportunity.

Murray hopes sushi munching will give him energy to beat Nadal

LONDON – British tennis star Andy Murray is hoping that his decision to much on the raw fish sushi, will give him the required energy to beat World No1 Rafael Nadal in this afternoon’s semi-final clash at Wimbledon.

According to The Sun, Murray has been munching up to 50 servings of sushi each night.

“Andy … Read more »».

Ex-Brit footie star Davenport declared not guilty of attacking his sister

LONDON – Former West Ham United defender Calum Davenport has been cleared of head butting and biting his sister in a drink-fuelled attack. He was also cleared of trying to throttle his sibling during a drunken row in which he allegedly branded her a “form of cancer”.

According to The Sun, Davenport was accused of launching … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ex-Brit footie star Davenport declared not guilty of attacking his sister.

Fifth ODI against Aussies will be perfect for Pietersen to fire: Flower

SYDNEY – The fifth ODI against Australia will be a perfect setting for Kevin Pietersen to come out of his form slump in one-dayers, according to England coach Andy Flower.

Pietersen has not scored a half-century in his past 15 one-day international innings, and his last big score was an unbeaten 111 against India in Cuttack … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Fifth ODI against Aussies will be perfect for Pietersen to fire: Flower.

Ponting encourages Tait to make a Test comeback

LONDON – Australian skipper Ricky Ponting is reported to have urged South Australian spearhead Shaun Tait to make a comeback to Test cricket.

So impressed was Ponting with the resurgence of pace thunderbolt Tait that he said he would encourage him to strive for a dramatic Test comeback.

Tait has not played a Test since … Read more »».

Clarke says Aussies have been spying on England pacer Finn

LONDON – Australian vice-captain Michael Clarke has claimed that his team has England pace bowler Steven Finn’s number, and that the hosts have failed to hide him this summer.

The 22-year-old six feet eight inch fast bowler is the hottest quick on the scene with 19 wickets from his first four Tests and has drawn comparisons … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Clarke says Aussies have been spying on England pacer Finn.

Germans play mind games to try to upset Diego Maradona’s Argentina at World Cup

Germans play mind games with Argentina
JOHANNESBURG – There’s no better way to spice up an off day at the World Cup than with good old-fashioned trash talk.

Germany’s players spent both rest days this week sending strong words the way of Argentina, their opponent in Saturday’s quarterfinals. The latest came from captain Philipp Lahm, who accused …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Germans play mind games to try to upset Diego Maradona’s Argentina at World Cup.

Throwing away shots at the end, Woods now tries to make cut

Woods puts himself in a hole
NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa. – Hitting driver on all but three holes, Tiger Woods had his best round all year off the tee. On half of the holes at Aronimink, he had birdie putts inside 20 feet.
It was more reason for optimism – until he looked at his scorecard.
One …. Read the original article  : Throwing away shots at the end, Woods now tries to make cut.

How does one Bend it like Beckham?

WASHINGTON – How does one make a football do things that seem to defy the forces of nature or, as immortalised in the popular movie, Bend it like (David) Beckham?

A new study on the science of soccer explains how the world’s greatest players are able to do miraculous things with the ball at their feet. …. Source  : How does one Bend it like Beckham?.

San Jose Sharks sign Antero Niittymaki to 2-year deal to replace longtime G Evgeni Nabokov

Sharks sign G Antero Niittymaki to 2-year deal

The San Jose Sharks moved swiftly to replace longtime goalie Evgeni Nabokov on Thursday, signing veteran Finnish goalie Antero Niittymaki to a two-year, $4 million deal.
Sharks general manager Doug Wilson targeted Niittymaki in the opening minutes of free agency, and Niittymaki was thrilled that the first inquiry about … Read this article on Gaea Times at : San Jose Sharks sign Antero Niittymaki to 2-year deal to replace longtime G Evgeni Nabokov.

Toronto Maple Leafs add forward Colby Armstrong in 3-year deal worth $9 million

Maple Leafs add F Armstrong in 3-year deal

TORONTO – The Toronto Maple Leafs have added another gritty forward, signing free-agent Colby Armstrong to a $9-million, three-year deal.
Colby spent the past two seasons with the Atlanta Thrashers. He had 15 goals and 29 points in 79 games last season.
Armstrong is the second forward to be added …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Toronto Maple Leafs add forward Colby Armstrong in 3-year deal worth $9 million.

21st-ranked Russian says she has nothing to fear against Williams in Wimbledon final

Zvonareva faces big odds against Serena Williams
WIMBLEDON, England – Vera Zvonareva has never played in a Grand Slam final before. At No. 21, the Russian is the second-lowest ranked player ever to reach the Wimbledon women’s final. Her opponent is the world’s top-ranked player and a three-time Wimbledon winner.
Nothing to worry about then.
“I …. Source article  : 21st-ranked Russian says she has nothing to fear against Williams in Wimbledon final.

Zimbabwe cricket chief says Howard was just not suitable for ICC post

MELBOURNE – Zimbabwe Cricket chairman Peter Chingoka has justified his country’s decision not to support the candidature of former Australian prime minister John Howard for the post of ICC vice-president, saying he was just not suitable.

Chingoka told The Age it “goes without saying” that whoever Australia and NZ choose in place of rejected nominee John …. Read the original article  : Zimbabwe cricket chief says Howard was just not suitable for ICC post.

Lance Armstrong denies Floyd Landis’ latest doping accusations

Armstrong dismisses latest Landis doping claims

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands – Lance Armstrong says he is too busy to pay attention to the latest allegations by former teammate Floyd Landis that he has engaged in doping during his career.
Landis, who was stripped of the 2006 Tour de France title for doping, gave the Wall Street Journal additional details … Read more : Lance Armstrong denies Floyd Landis’ latest doping accusations.

PCB boss Butt refuses to respond to ex-ICC CEO’s ‘buffoon’ jibe

KARACHI – Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman (PCB) Ijaz Butt has refused to respond to the taunting statements made by former International Cricket Council (ICC) CEO Malcolm Speed in Singapore, where the council’s executive committee’s meeting is being held.

Furious over the rejection of former Australian Prime Minister John Howard’s bid for the ICC vice-president’s post, Speed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : PCB boss Butt refuses to respond to ex-ICC CEO’s ‘buffoon’ jibe.

Katich expects improved performance from Pakistan under ‘flamboyant’ Afridi

SYDNEY – Australian Test opener Simon Katich believes that ‘flamboyant’ Shahid Afridi would bring positive changes in the Pakistan squad, and is expecting an improved performance from his team when the two sides clash in the two match Test series in England later this month.

Pakistan has never beaten Australia in a Test match since 1995, …. Original source  : Katich expects improved performance from Pakistan under ‘flamboyant’ Afridi.

Biggest mistake not giving England squad rest before World Cup campaign: Capello

LONDON – England manager Fabio Capello has admitted that his biggest World Cup mistake was not giving a break to the squad before the tournament.

According to reports, Capello is convinced that he should have scrapped the two-week training camp in Austria to let his players refresh themselves following a hectic Premier League season.

“Fabio now thinks …. Source  : Biggest mistake not giving England squad rest before World Cup campaign: Capello.

Ferdinand admits England team faces tough challenge to win back supporters

LONDON – Injured England captain Rio Ferdinand has said that the biggest challenge for his team is to win back the support of football fans, who are depressed following the disastrous World Cup campaign in South Africa.

Ferdinand also said that team needs to work its way back and qualify for the Euro 2012. … Read more >>>.

Tiger Woods admits he’s very frustrated

WASHINGTON – Tiger Woods certainly has a lot going on in his life right now. Between getting caught with multiple mistresses, his impending divorce and sucking at golf, he admits he’s feeling very ‘frustrated.’

The golfer admitted that he is feeling ‘awful’ after bowing out of contention …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tiger Woods admits he’s very frustrated.

‘On-fire’ Berdych says he ‘doesn’t fear anyone’ following giant-killing spree

LONDON – Ahead of Sunday’s Wimbledon final showdown against Rafael Nadal, giant-killer Tomas Berdych has said that he doesn’t fear anyone following his performances to beat Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

The first Czech men’s singles finalist at Wimbledon since Ivan Lendl in 1986 and … Read more »».

Atwal shoots 72, drops down the leaderboard

PENNSYLVANIA – Arjun Atwal gave away three late bogeys and dropped down to tied 14th at the midway stage of the AT&T Nationals golf Tournament here
Atwal, who shared the lead after the first round, shot a disappointing 72 in the second round after first 66 Friday evening.
Atwal, who is currently on … Read : Atwal shoots 72, drops down the leaderboard.

Clark County, Wash., records show Tonya Harding married again

Wash. county: Records show Tonya Harding marriage

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Clark County officials say their records show Tonya Harding has married again.
Deputy Auditor Karen Updike told The Columbian newspaper that she issued a marriage license to the 39-year-old Harding and 42-year-old Joseph Jens Price on June 23. She says she remembers the disgraced former Olympian as … Read more »»».

England’s ‘tired’ excuse for World Cup elimination may not exactly add up, AP review finds

England’s excuse for WCup exit may not add up

JOHANNESBURG – Fabio Capello’s excuse that his England players were too tired at the World Cup may not exactly add up.
After England was eliminated from the tournament in South Africa in the round of 16, the England coach blamed a long season for his players’ sluggishness on …. Source article  : England’s ‘tired’ excuse for World Cup elimination may not exactly add up, AP review finds.

Dutch master Brazil reaches World Cup semifinals; Uruguay moves on in penalty shootout

Dutch master Brazil reaches World Cup semifinals

JOHANNESBURG – One big upset and the wildest finish yet at the World Cup.
The first pair of quarterfinal matches at South Africa 2010 provided some of the most thrilling – and heartbreaking – moments at the tournament.
The Netherlands came from behind to upset mighty Brazil 2-1 on Friday and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Dutch master Brazil reaches World Cup semifinals; Uruguay moves on in penalty shootout.

Brazil: Where football is a passion, religion and unifier (Comment)

“You are not a Brazilian. So, you do not know what football means to us,” admonished my friend Elaisa. Brazil had conceded a goal to France in the first half of the World Cup final game in 1998. Elaisa was sobbing uncontrollably. Tears cascaded down her cheeks. I felt helpless, but also surprised.

“Look this is … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Brazil: Where football is a passion, religion and unifier (Comment).

Rose on a roll as he takes the lead into the week at Aronimink

Rose takes the lead, Tiger at bottom of the pack
NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa. – Maybe if he had not won the Memorial Tournament for his first PGA Tour victory last month, Justin Rose would be an emotional wreck.
Instead, he dusted himself off from a Sunday collapse last week and is right back in the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rose on a roll as he takes the lead into the week at Aronimink.

‘God wants’ Argentina to be in World Cup final: Maradona

CAPE TOWN – Ahead of Saturday’s crunch Argentina-Germany World Cup quarterfinal, Argentina coach Diego Maradona has said that “God wants” his team to win the game and reach the final.

“I came across a group of kids yesterday and they said, ‘Diego, we want to be in the final. Can you give us that?’ …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mark Taylor may replace Howard as ICC vice-presidential candidate

SYDNEY – As the dust settles on the ICC’s rejection of John Howard as its next vice-president, it is believed that Cricket Australia and New Zealand Cricket may name former Australian captain Mark Taylor as an alternative candidate to the former Australian Prime Minister.

A member of the ICC’s cricket committee and CA’s board, Taylor … Original article on : Mark Taylor may replace Howard as ICC vice-presidential candidate.

‘Retained’ Capello ‘more determined’ to succeed with England team

LONDON – Following the Football Association’s decision to retain Fabio Capello as the England manager, the Italian has said that he was determined to redeem the poor performance in South Africa.

Capello said that the disappointment of South Africa would act as motivation as the Three Lions’ prepare for the 2012 European Championships.

“I am more …. Source  : ‘Retained’ Capello ‘more determined’ to succeed with England team.

Capello to continue as England manager

LONDON – Fabio Capello will continue as England manager despite the Three Lions’ disappointing Round of 16 exit from the World Cup.

England was knocked out of the tournament in South Africa following a 4-1 loss to Germany, but the Football Association (FA) said that it had unanimously agreed that Capello deserved to keep his job.

According … Original article on : Capello to continue as England manager.

Howard’s ICC vice-president bid rejection a real shame: Waugh

SYDNEY – Former Australian captain Steve Waugh has slammed the International Cricket Council (ICC)’s decision to reject former Australian Prime Minister John Howard’s bid for the post of vice-president.

The Asian and African Test playing country-members within the ICC dismissed Howard’s candidacy after Wednesday’s executive meeting in Singapore.

He required the support of at least seven of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Howard’s ICC vice-president bid rejection a real shame: Waugh.

Razzaq shines as Pakistan trounce Essex by 66 runs in practice match

CHELMSFORD – Bowling all-rounder Abdul Razzaq’s brilliant spell of three for 19 helped Pakistan trounce Essex by 66 runs in a practice T20 match here ahead of the next week’s encounter with Australia.

Pakistan made 204 for four, and then held Essex to 138 for nine in their allotted 20 overs.

Shahzaib Hasan top scored for Pakistan … Original article on : Razzaq shines as Pakistan trounce Essex by 66 runs in practice match.

Commonwealth Games CEO happy with Delhi Games progress

NEW DELHI – The Commonwealth Games Federation, which had earlier expressed grave concerns over Delhi’s preparations for the October Commonwealth Games, is now much more positive about the authorities delivering the event to the world on time.

The Games are just three months away, and, three crucial venues are still not ready, but the mood among …. Read the original article  : Commonwealth Games CEO happy with Delhi Games progress.

Ashley Cole in new sex text scandal?

LONDON – Chelsea footballer Ashley Cole, who was dumped by wife Cheryl over his extra-marital affairs, seems to have landed in trouble again.

The soccer star apparently sent sex texts to a young model he spotted on the Internet just hours before England kicked off in crucial World Cup games.

Two-and-a-half hours before England’s opening match … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ashley Cole in new sex text scandal?.

Obsession with long-ball game behind England’s WC demise: Cole

LONDON – Midfielder Joe Cole has claimed that England’s World Cup demise was caused by side lining of technically-gifted players due to an obsession with the long-ball game.

Cole, who played for just 44 minutes in South Africa, said: “I want the right kind of manager, a manager who loves me, who will put me in [..] Read the original article: here.

Seven trophies stolen from FIFA’s office in South Africa

LONDON – Thieves have stolen seven replica World Cup trophies from FIFA’s South Africa headquarter, which is near the venue for the World Cup final.

The miniature gold- plated cups, worth around 100 pounds each, were snatched from a store cupboard at FIFA’s base in Johannesburg.

South Africa’s police commissioner Bheki Cele said the theft of … Read more : Seven trophies stolen from FIFA’s office in South Africa.

Atwal down to tied 20th on US tour

NEWTON SQUARE – Arjun Atwal, the first round co-leader, dropped further down the leaderboard to tied 20th at the end of the third round of the AT&T National golf. The Indian carded a one-over 71, which saw him at one-under for the three days.
Justin Rose, winner of the Memorial last month, had run … Read more »»».

Now, soccer World Cup trophy made of coke!

MELBOURNE – Football fever sure has gripped the entire world and even smugglers have not been left untouched – a lawbreaker in Colombia sculpted a FIFA World Cup trophy out of cocaine.

According to airports anti-drug chief Colonel Jose Piedrahita, Colombian authorities found the unusual statue during a routine security check by anti-drug agents on … Read more »».

Tour de France dope tests ‘flawed’, says French anti-doping agency head

PARIS – Head of the French anti-doping agency (AFLD), Pierre Bordry has questioned the credibility of the testing due to be done during this year’s Tour de France.

This year the AFLD has been excluded from direct participation in the testing process.

Bordry said that an international team of observers was being brought in after concerns raised …. Original article  : Tour de France dope tests ‘flawed’, says French anti-doping agency head.

‘Clueless’ Capello blamed for England’s ouster from World Cup

LONDON – Coach Fabio Capello, who is attempting to move on from the World Cup debacle, has been blamed even by those players who believed he was the right man to lead England.

The FA has decided to back Capello for another two years and he has made it clear there will be a huge … Read more >>.

Murray should focus on winning first Grand Slam title: Borg

LONDON – Tennis legend Bjorn Borg has said Andy Murray should forget about his Wimbledon disappointment and focus on his pursuit of a first Grand Slam title.

Like Rafael Nadal, who extinguished Murray’s title hopes in three sets in Friday’s semi-final, Borg expects the Scot’s efforts to eventually be rewarded with a major title, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Murray should focus on winning first Grand Slam title: Borg.

Capello warns England big stars to perform or perish

LONDON – England boss Fabio Capello has informed Football Association chiefs that he will dump his big stars if they don’t show an immediate improvement in their game.

Capello, who is attempting to move on from the World Cup debacle, has put stars like John Terry, Frank Lampard, Ashley Cole and Steven Gerrard on a …. Read the original article  : here.

Fearless Germans played like true champions: Joachim Low

LONDON – Germany’s young football squad played like true champions in their 4-0 thrashing of title contenders Argentina in quarterfinals, according to coach Joachim Low.

Germans inspired by two-goals from striker Miroslav Klose built on their 4-1 second-round victory against England with an equally thumping 4-0 success against the South Americans.

Klose, who scored only three … Original article on : Fearless Germans played like true champions: Joachim Low.

A vuvuzela that cost 20,000 pounds

LONDON – A Russian businessman paid a whopping 20,000 pounds for a plastic vuvuzela that was encrusted with precious stones, including a large single diamond, so that he could gift it to a football-crazy business contact who wants to blow it at the World Cup final.

Austria-based jeweller Klemens Pointner said: “I met the businessmen at … Read more : A vuvuzela that cost 20,000 pounds.

Brock Lesnar Vs. Shane Carwin: Brock Lesnar Wins

LAS VEGAS (GaeaTimes.com)- American mixed martial arts fighter Brock Lesnar registered a spectacular victory against Shane Carwin in the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday night. With the victory the heavyweight champion was able to defend his title and successfully secured his supremacy in the heavyweight division. The 32 year old …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brock Lesnar Vs. Shane Carwin: Brock Lesnar Wins.

Peachtree Road Race Today

ATLANTA (Gaeatimes.com)- The famous Peachtree Road Race will be celebrating its 40th anniversary today as the race commences on Sunday morning. In its long journey through all these years Peachtree Road Race has been able to grow and set new heights with each and every passing year. In its 40th anniversary 55,000 runners from … Read more >>.

Coke Zero 400 Witnessed A Tough Race

DAYTONA BEACH (GaeaTimes.com)- Coke Zero 400 on Saturday witnessed one of it’s wildest race ever with a total of 20 car crashes on a rain interrupted day. Still it didn’t stop Kevin Harvick from winning Coke Zero 400 in a close finish.
Coke Zero 400 had a delayed start by two hours due to the rains. …. Source  : Coke Zero 400 Witnessed A Tough Race.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Baby Boy Announcement

Los Angeles (GaeaTimes.com)- Christiano Ronaldo yesterday made a surprising announcement that he is the father of a baby boy. The Portuguese captain who after facing the defeat in The World Cup was “devastated”, now seems to be in great joy while announcing the news. The player announced the news of his fatherhood in two … Read more »»».

Surprised Dhoni fans celebrate in Ranchi

RANCHI – They burst firecrackers, distributed sweets and danced away to Bollywood tunes. Fans of cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni in his hometown here were taken by surprise on learning of their hero’s engagement and went all out to celebrate the occasion.
“We are surprised but happy over Dhoni’s engagement. No one had imagined … Read more >>.

Former intelligence chief warns of threat to Britain from Russian spies

LONDON – Former head of MI5, Stella Rimington believes that Russia still possesses “a very large and well-resourced intelligence community” which remains a threat to British economic and security interests.

“The successor organizations to the KGB are every bit as active as their predecessor,” The Telegraph quoted Rimington, as saying.

“Are the Russians up to the same … Read : Former intelligence chief warns of threat to Britain from Russian spies.

‘Few hundred’ Russian spies operating in UK: Analyst

LONDON – A Russian analyst, Alexander Nekrassov, has said that there could be ‘a few hundred’ Russian intelligence operatives in the UK.

“There are probably hardened spies, professionals and that would be quite a small number, who would be looking for recruitment, that’s the ultimate goal of any intelligence service,” Sky News quoted Nekrassov, as saying.

“The … Read more : ‘Few hundred’ Russian spies operating in UK: Analyst.

Federer vows to overcome seven-year ‘world rankings’ low

LONDON – Six-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer has vowed to fight his way back to the top after falling to his lowest world ranking in seven years.
In the new rankings, to be revealed today, Federer will be down to No. 3 after losing to Tomas Berdych in the Wimbledon quarterfinal earlier … Original article on : Federer vows to overcome seven-year ‘world rankings’ low.

Tait’s blitz flattens England as Australia register 42 run win in last ODI

LONDON – Riding on Shaun Tait’s ‘lighting fast’ spell, Australia defeated England by 42 runs in the fifth and last one-day international at Lord’s here thus reducing the hosts’ series-winning margin to 3-2.
Chasing 278, England never looked like achieving the target as they were rocked by Tait’s double blow early in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tap-tap! Mizo bamboo dance for Games ceremony

AIZAWL – The vivacious Mizo bamboo dance, which symbolises excellence and skills, will entertain spectators at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in the Indian capital.

“The state government has accepted the invitation from the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee to perform the Mizo traditional and colourful Cheraw dance at the inaugural ceremony in the national … Read more : Tap-tap! Mizo bamboo dance for Games ceremony.

Murray eyes US Open to accomplish Grand Slam title dream

LONDON – After his Wimbledon semi-final exit, British tennis ace Andy Murray will head off to America hoping that he can still make his dream of winning a Grand Slam title come true at the US Open.

Murray’s 6-4, 7-6 (8-6), 6-4 defeat to Spaniard Rafael Nadal on last Friday has ruthlessly postponed his … Read : Murray eyes US Open to accomplish Grand Slam title dream.

Mum of Ronaldo’s son could be American

LONDON – If rumours are to be believed, an American could be the mother of footie ace Cristiano Ronaldo’s baby-boy, thanks to his wild US holiday last summer.

The Real Madrid player, 25, confirmed recently that he has become a dad, but did not reveal the identity of the mother of his child.

And now, gossipmongers are …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mum of Ronaldo’s son could be American.

Serena Williams admits couldn’t beat any man in top 100

MELBOURNE – World No.1 and Wimbledon champion Serena Williams may frighten her female rivals with her all round game, but knows very well that she couldn’t stay on the court with any man in the top 100.

Williams made the humble confession after winning her fourth Wimbledon title without dropping a single set, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Serena Williams admits couldn’t beat any man in top 100.

No word still on Mandela’s presence during World Cup final

JOHANNESBURG – Anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela’s presence at the final on July 11 at Soccer City is uncertain, according to World Cup organizers.

The 91-year-old South African leader had been expected to attend part of the opening game on June 11 in Johannesburg, but withdrew after his great granddaughter was killed in a car crash that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : No word still on Mandela’s presence during World Cup final.

Hamilton smokes peace pipe with dad ahead of British Grand Prix

LONDON – British Formula One ace Lewis Hamilton is likely to have a reunion with dad Anthony when the championship leader bids for British Grand Prix glory on Sunday.

The duo had fallen out earlier when Hamilton had relieved his father and long-time manager of his managerial duties days before the start of the F1 season.

They …. Source article  : Hamilton smokes peace pipe with dad ahead of British Grand Prix.

Chris Evert still ‘hurt, angry and shamed’ over split with Greg Norman

MELBOURNE – Former tennis ace Chris Evert says she is still ‘hurt, angry and shamed’ over her short-lived marital life with golfing great Greg Norman.

“I had no idea it was coming. No idea,” News.com.au quoted her as saying of her split with Norman.

Evert added: “It wasn’t talked about, ever.

“Never in a million years …. Source  : Chris Evert still ‘hurt, angry and shamed’ over split with Greg Norman.

England struck with World Cup flops for another two years, fears Neville

LONDON – Manchester United defender Gary Neville, who has won 85 England caps, fears that England is stuck with their World Cup flops for another two years.

England fans want coach Fabio Capello to clear out his under-achievers after their thrashing by Germany and give youth a chance in the Euro 2012 qualifiers.

Neville said … Read : England struck with World Cup flops for another two years, fears Neville.

Shane Warne rants over British Airways first-class on Twitter

MELBOURNE – Shane Warne took to Twitter to vent out his anger over the British Airways flight he took for his trip to the US.

The disappointed cricketer was sent into a spin over an uncomfortable flight from London to the US, and has vowed to never again fly British Airways.

Warne, who was travelling first-class, …. Read the original article  : here.

Klose eyeing overtaking Ronaldo’s World Cup record haul of 15 goals

DURBAN – Germany striker Miroslav Klose hopes to overtake Brazilian legend Ronaldo’s World Cup record, when his team plays Spain in Wednesday’s semi-final in Durban.
Klose, who scored twice against Argentina in the quarterfinal to take his finals tally to 14, is just one goal shy of Ronaldo’s record haul of 15 goals.

The 32-year-old has …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Klose eyeing overtaking Ronaldo’s World Cup record haul of 15 goals.

Uruguay needed a playoff to reach WCup _ now in semifinal for first time in 40 years

Surprise package Uruguay on brink of WCup final

JOHANNESBURG – The last country to qualify for the World Cup, Uruguay is hoping to be the last to leave.
“We gatecrashed the party, but now we are here we want to keep dancing as long as possible,” veteran striker Sebastian Abreu said Sunday.
Uruguay needed a playoff win against …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Uruguay needed a playoff to reach WCup _ now in semifinal for first time in 40 years.

Klose says new German talent can beat Spain in World Cup semifinals, avenge Euro 2008 loss

Klose believes Germany’s youngsters can beat Spain

ERASMIA, South Africa – The German kids are doing all right.
They might even help Germany avenge that loss to Spain in the 2008 European Championship final.
“A few years ago people kept saying that, ‘Isn’t it a shame there aren’t any new generations coming through? We’ve no forwards coming through, …. Original article  : Klose says new German talent can beat Spain in World Cup semifinals, avenge Euro 2008 loss.

With a US Open performance, Justin Rose wins at Aronimink for 2nd PGA Tour title

Rose trades a bad memory for a winning feeling

NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa. – Justin Rose kept saying he was only interested in becoming a better player.
He only stopped saying that when he looked like one at the AT&T National.
Buried beneath that boyish smile was a bruised ego from having blown a three-shot lead a week earlier …. Original source  : With a US Open performance, Justin Rose wins at Aronimink for 2nd PGA Tour title.

No surprise in men’s final: Rafael Nadal is back on top at Wimbledon

Nadal back on top at Wimbledon
WIMBLEDON, England – The queen of England had the right idea coming to Wimbledon during the first week.
That’s when the tournament produced most of its drama, while the final weekend stuck with a predictable script, thanks to Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams.
Nadal cemented his status as the world’s …. Source  : No surprise in men’s final: Rafael Nadal is back on top at Wimbledon.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni Receives Twitter Wishes

DEHRADUN (GaeaTimes.com)- It is not only cricket enthusiasts, fans of Mahendra Singh Dhoni or the cricket fraternity that is in a celebratory mood as the captain of Indian Cricket team Mahendra Singh Dhoni moves to tie knot with Aurangabad girl Sakshi Singh Rawat tonight, but also the Bollywood fraternity of which many stars took … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mahendra Singh Dhoni Receives Twitter Wishes.

UNI Athlete Dies In Accident

COFFS HARVOUR (GaeaTimes.com)- An UNI athlete from Gladesville met with a fatal accident on Sunday. Reportedly, the UNI athlete was competing in the Eastern University Games which is now being held at Coffs Harvour.
The UNI athlete was 20 years old and has been a prominent competitor in the Eastern University Games. The cops were informed … Original source on Gaea Times at : UNI Athlete Dies In Accident.

German team is best: Spanish players

Potchefstroom (South Africa), July 5 (IANS/EFE) Ahead of the match against Germany in the World Cup semifinals, Spanish players say that the German team is “the best” in the 2010 soccer competition.

Spain and Germany will face off again Wednesday, in effect replaying in South Africa the Eurocopa 2008 final. Spanish players see an improved …. Original source  : German team is best: Spanish players.

Dhoni Wedding: A Secret Affair

DEHRADUN, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Breaking millions of hearts across the nation, Indian skipper Mahendra Singh
Dhoni got married to old friend Sakshi Singh Rawat at a private ceremony in Dehradun on Sunday night. The wedding ceremony was attended by around 70 guests who were present to shower the newly-married couple with their best wishes. Apart from … Original source on Gaea Times at : Dhoni Wedding: A Secret Affair.

Pakistan a ‘dangerous’ Twenty20 team when they want to be: Johnson

LONDON – Ahead of Monday’s opening Twenty20 game against Pakistan in Birmingham, Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has said that the 2009 Twenty20 World Cup champions are a dangerous side because of their strong batting and bowling line-ups.

“We smashed them in Australia (earlier this year) and Mike Hussey did an amazing job …. Source  : Pakistan a ‘dangerous’ Twenty20 team when they want to be: Johnson.

Indians sparkle in first half of Asian Tour season

NEW DELHI – One win and a bunch of top-10s is how the first half of the Asian Tour panned out for Indian golfers this year. The encouraging feature has been the emergence of a new crop of youngsters who are all set to make their presence felt in world golf.

Even as the established set … Read : Indians sparkle in first half of Asian Tour season.

Bob Probert Dies Of Chest Pain

WINDSOR, CANADA (GaeaTimes.com)- One of the greatest players Red Wings Bob Probert passed away on Monday after he suffered from a serious chest pain. Onlookers said that Bob Probert was fixing the trim of his boat on Lake St. Clair when all of sudden he collapsed on the boat.

The medical rescue workers reached the … Read more »».

Body of chess master Bobby Fischer exhumed in paternity row

LONDON – The body of American chess champion Bobby Fischer has been exhumed in Iceland in a bid to clarify if he is the father of a nine-year-old girl from the Philippines.

According to police district commissioner Olafur Helgi Kjartansson, Fischer’s body was dug up from a cemetery near Selfoss in southern Iceland in the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

S. African gender row runner Semenya set to race against women

LONDON – South African star athlete Caster Semenya, who was banned by the IAAF after a gender test showed her to be a hermaphrodite, is set to be cleared to run against women, ending her 11-month exile from competitive racing.

The International Association of Athletics Federations and the authorities in South Africa are expected to announce …. Read the original article  : here.

Secret of success of German WC juggernaught is coach Low ’s lucky blue jumper!

LONDON – The secret behind the youthful German team’s success in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa is being attributed to coach Joachim Low’s lucky blue sweater.

Germany has thrashed England and Argentina to set up a semi-final against Spain tomorrow, surprising the football pundits with their all round game.

Low insists that though he …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

JaMarcus Russell Arrested For Codeine Possession

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- The cops detained JaMarcus Russell on Monday afternoon after the Los Angeles Raiders quarterback was accused of illegal possession of codeine syrup. JaMarcus Russell has been a primary suspect for codeine consumption and was taken into custody in an undercover investigation.
JaMarcus Russell has been the center of discussion as his teammates have …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : JaMarcus Russell Arrested For Codeine Possession.

Indo-Pak cricket series revival on the cards?

KARACHI – The chances of resumption of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket series has received a boost, as the issue was discussed at length during the just concluded International Cricket Council’s (ICC) meeting in Singapore.

According to sources, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ijaz Butt had a meeting ICC’s new president Sharad Pawar during which the resumption of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indo-Pak cricket series revival on the cards?.

Pressure of massive expectations behind Rooney’s dismal WC outing: Ferguson

LONDON – Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has said that the pressure of the huge expectations of the nation on Wayne Rooney’s shoulders, resulted in a bitterly disappointing World Cup tournament for the ace striker, who failed to score a single goal.

Ferguson has now urged critics to lay off Rooney, and tipped him to …. Read the original article  : Pressure of massive expectations behind Rooney’s dismal WC outing: Ferguson.

Captain Clarke’s woeful run threatening his Twenty20 career

MELBOURNE – Australia Twenty20 skipper Michael Clarke’s bad form in the shortest version of the game continues, as pressure grows to up his scoring rate after his soft dismissal in the team’s 23-run loss in the opening match against Pakistan at Edgbaston.

Clarke scored five before mistiming a delivery from medium-pacer Abdul Razzaq to Shahid …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Cricket Australia not to re-nominate Howard for ICC vice president

SYDNEY – Cricket Australia will not adopt a hard line stance and re-nominate former premier John Howard, but will push for a new nominee for the position of International Cricket Council vice-president.

It will conduct a telephone conversation with its board members on Friday to consider a new candidate for the position of ICC vice-president.

Howard … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cricket Australia not to re-nominate Howard for ICC vice president.

England can still be at World Cup final, courtesy their referee, Webb!

LONDON – England could still be represented at the finals of the 2010 World Cup in the form of referee Howard Webb.

Webb, 38, will get the chance to take charge of football’s biggest game only if Holland beats Uruguay in tonight’s semi-final.

Webb hopes to become the first English referee to take charge of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : England can still be at World Cup final, courtesy their referee, Webb!.

Dutch treating history and possible future as irrelevant

Dutch staying in the World Cup present
CAPE TOWN, South Africa – Here and now.

That’s all that interests the Dutch as they prepare for Tuesday night’s World Cup semifinal with Uruguay. Those two losses in the finals of 1974 and 1978? Nothing but history – ancient history.
A chance to play for the title again, on Sunday … Read more »».

Ronaldo ‘paid American surrogate to have his baby’

SYDNEY – Soccer ace Cristiano Ronaldo had his baby with an American surrogate, a Portuguese newspaper has claimed.

According to the Daily Mail, an article in Diario de Noticias says Ronaldo conceived the little boy by paying a surrogate in San Diego at the end of last summer.

A representative for the footballer’s management company Gestifute confirmed … Original article on : Ronaldo ‘paid American surrogate to have his baby’.

Amazed Clarke says ‘neutral’ Edgbaston just as partisan’ as venue in Pak

BIRMINGHAM – Australia T20 skipper Michael Clarke was shell shocked by the overwhelming support for Pakistan during the first T20 international, which the Kangaroos lost by 23 runs, at Edgbaston here.

Clarke said he was amazed to see the support that Pakistan received at this ‘neutral’ ground, adding that the atmosphere was pretty much …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Betancourt’s 2-out single gives Royals 6-4 win over Mariners in 10

Betancourt leads Royals over Mariners in 10

SEATTLE – Yuniesky Betancourt’s broke a 10th-inning tie with a two-out RBI single and the Kansas City Royals went on to a 6-4 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Monday night.
Mitch Maier tripled off Chad Cordero (0-1) with two outs in the 10th, just the fifth extra-base hit for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Betancourt’s 2-out single gives Royals 6-4 win over Mariners in 10.

Royals 6, Mariners 4, 10 innings,

Royals 6, Mariners 4, 10 innings,

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Teixeira solo homer, Granderson triple help Vazquez to victory as Yankees beat A’s 3-1

Teixeira homers as Yankees beat A’s, 3-1
OAKLAND, Calif. – Mark Teixeira hit a solo homer, Curtis Granderson had an RBI triple and the New York Yankees beat the Oakland Athletics 3-1 on Monday night for their third straight victory.

Francisco Cervelli added an RBI single as New York gave Javier Vazquez (7-7) all the offense he … Read more >>.

South Africa enters Guinness book with largest soccer ball

JOHANNESBURG – South Africa may be out of the World Cup football tournament but the host country has got a place in the Guinness World Records by creating the world’s largest soccer ball.

The ball with a diameter of 15.66 metres and weighing 650 kg, was officially recognised as the world’s largest by the Guinness World … Read : South Africa enters Guinness book with largest soccer ball.

Marlins capitalize on wobbly outing by John Ely to beat Dodgers 6-5

Marlins beat Dodgers 6-5 behind Helms’ RBI single

LOS ANGELES – Wes Helms hit a bases-loaded two-run single in the third inning after Florida scored its first three runs on a sacrifice fly, a groundout and a throwing error, and the Marlins beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 6-5 on Monday night.
Nate Robertson (6-6) allowed four runs …. Original source  : Marlins capitalize on wobbly outing by John Ely to beat Dodgers 6-5.

Matt LaPorta hits 2-run homer, then sustains head injury in Indians’ 9-3 victory over Rangers

LaPorta homers, then injured in Cleveland’s win

ARLINGTON, Texas – Matt LaPorta hit a two-run homer, then later took an accidental elbow to the head and left the game Monday night as the Cleveland Indians beat the Texas Rangers 9-3.
Jayson Nix homered twice and rookie Carlos Santana also connected to help the Indians win for the …. Original article  : Matt LaPorta hits 2-run homer, then sustains head injury in Indians’ 9-3 victory over Rangers.

Indians 9, Rangers 3

Indians 9, Rangers 3

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J.Nix 2b …. Read the original article  : Indians 9, Rangers 3.

Real Madrid interested in Germany’s Khedira, reports

MADRID – Spanish giants Real Madrid are interested in Germany midfielder Sami Khedira, according to sports daily AS Wednesday.

Khedira, 23, has had an outstanding World Cup football as a defensive midfielder and was due to play for Germany in Wednesday’s semi-final against Spain.
According to AS, new Real coach Jose Mourinho has given his approval … Read more »»».

Mercedez workers allowed to watch Germany match

LONDON – Night shift workers at auto giant Mercedez-Benz plants in Germany have been allowed to watch on television the World Cup semi-final between Germany and Spain.

German car company Daimler, the owner of Mercedes-Benz, has decided to let workers at one of the country’s biggest factories join the nation in the streets and bars to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mercedez workers allowed to watch Germany match.

Soccer boosts sex tourism in Cape Town

CAPE TOWN – With a million football fans splurging thousands of dollars during the World Cup, sex tourism in South Africa’s number one tourist destination, Cape Town, is at an all time high.

Be it the famous Long Street, the exotic Sea Point or the breathtaking Waterfront, sex workers are having a heyday at the popular …. Read the original article  : Soccer boosts sex tourism in Cape Town.

2010 sees first European World Cup champ outside Europe

JOHANNESBURG – The Dutch semi-final victory over Uruguay Tuesday assures Europe of a first World Cup football title at a tournament played outside its territory.

So far no team from the continent has achieved the feat outside Europe, but the jinx will end Sunday when the Dutch face either Germany or Spain in the 2010 final. … Read more >>.

Naga ministers join World Cup party in South Africa

KOHIMA – Soccer fever has struck Nagaland with half of the council of ministers led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio already in South Africa and are all set for the World Cup finals in Johannesburg July 11.

Of the 12 council of ministers, six of them are on a 10-day holiday to South Africa -Rio, Home … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Naga ministers join World Cup party in South Africa.

Without a reliable sidekick, King James’ odyssey could end in same place it began

End to long national nightmare finally within view

His long national nightmare is coming to an end.
Shortly after 9 p.m. EDT Thursday, we know now, and more convenient still, on live TV, as part of an hour-long ESPN special. And just like that, LeBron James will no longer be homeless.
This much attention for a guy who … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Without a reliable sidekick, King James’ odyssey could end in same place it began.

Caffeine pills could hinder football players performance, not boost it: WADA

SYDNEY – Footballers doping up on caffeine pills could be hindering their performance – not boosting it.

According to a World Anti-Doping Agency research, caffeine can be counterproductive on the field.

The Herald Sun quotes sports doctor Peter Larkins as saying that the threshold identified could be equal to as few as four No-Doz tablets or several [..] Read the original article: here.

England has best chance in 24 years to wrest Ashes Down Under: Warne

LONDON – Tossing aside his usual ritual of mocking the Poms, former Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne believes England has their best chance in 24 years of winning the Ashes Down Under this winter.

Warne has hailed off-spinner Graeme Swann as the world’s most improved cricketer – insisting he will be key to England’s attempt to …. Original article  : England has best chance in 24 years to wrest Ashes Down Under: Warne.

Amy Winehouse is Gazza’s ‘ideal woman’

LONDON – Paul Gascoigne has revealed that he loves Amy Winehouse and believes that she is the woman for him.

Former England footballer Gazza even said that he wants to go straight from one car crash to another by dating Winehouse.

He claimed the troubled 26-year-old singer was his “ideal woman”.

“I fancy Amy Winehouse. She’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Amy Winehouse is Gazza’s ‘ideal woman’.

PCB chief rules out recalling Younus, Yousuf

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ijaz Butt has ruled out the imminent return of former captains Younus Khan and Mohammad Yousuf.

Younus was not included in the national team for the ongoing England tour, despite an indefinite ban being overturned last month.

Butt said that Younus and his lawyer Ahmed Qayyum had broken …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : PCB chief rules out recalling Younus, Yousuf.

Fan Falls From Upper Deck And Halts Game

TEXAS (GaeaTimes.com)- The game between the Rangers Texas and the Cleveland Indians came to a standstill for about sixteen minutes yesterday when a fan of the Rangers accidentally fell from the upper deck and took a 30 feet dive downwards, hurting himself as well as four more in the incident.
The emergency squad who were … Original article on : Fan Falls From Upper Deck And Halts Game.

Spain’s running of the bulls kicks off in Pamplona’s San Fermin festival, no gorings

Spain bull-runs kick off in Pamplona, no gorings

PAMPLONA, Spain – Thousands of daredevils dashed through the narrow streets of Pamplona on Wednesday for a goring-free first bull run of this year’s San Fermin fiesta that unofficially ushers in Spain’s summer party season lasting through August.
The thrillseekers raced to keep ahead of six fighting bulls and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Spain’s running of the bulls kicks off in Pamplona’s San Fermin festival, no gorings.

Rodriguez goes deep twice, hitting 21st slam and 597th homer in Yankees’ 6-1 win over A’s

A-Rod, Sabathia lead Yankees past Athletics 6-1
OAKLAND, Calif. – Alex Rodriguez hit his 21st grand slam and added a solo shot for his 597th home run, helping CC Sabathia win his seventh straight start in the New York Yankees’ 6-1 victory over the Oakland Athletics on Tuesday night.
Rodriguez connected with the bases loaded …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rodriguez goes deep twice, hitting 21st slam and 597th homer in Yankees’ 6-1 win over A’s.

Germany took pity on England after 4-1 score line, says Podolski

LONDON – Germany striker Lukas Podolski has said that his side would still have thrashed England even if Frank Lampard’s strike had been allowed and their last 16 match levelled at 2-2.

To add insult to injury, he even reckons that the Germans took pity on the Three Lions in the end instead of going all …. Original source  : Germany took pity on England after 4-1 score line, says Podolski.

Murali, a cricketer who attracted controversy, split opinion the most

LONDON – Former England fast bowler Mike Selvey has said that when Sri Lankan off-spinner Muttiah Muralitharan retires from international cricket at the end of the first Test against India later this month with or without adding to his Test victims tally of 792, he will exit with the tag of a player who attracted … Read more »».

Tiger’s lad is a chip off the old block,claims rival golfer

LONDON – Golfer Ian Poulter believes that Tiger Woods’ year-old son has the potential of becoming a good golfer, if not a greater one than his father.

The English Ryder Cup ace revealed Tiger’s son looked such a natural, that the rest of the golfing world had better watch out when he grows up. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Tiger’s lad is a chip off the old block,claims rival golfer.

Ballack ousted from team camp after rift with Lahm

LONDON – Injured German skipper Michael Ballack has been ousted from the team’s World Cup camp after a massive rift with current incumbent Philipp Lahm.

The ex-Chelsea star faces a bleak international future after Lahm insisted that he will not give up the captain’s armband next season.

Coach Joachim Low, preparing his side for tonight’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Aamer fires Pakistan to T20 series sweep over Australia

EDGBASTON – Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Aamer guided Pakistan to a 2-0 Twenty20 series win over Australia, as they won Tuesday’s second and final game in Edgbaston by 11 runs.

Chasing 163 for victory, Aamer took three wickets for 27, as the Australians were bowled out for 151 with two balls left in the …. Source  : Aamer fires Pakistan to T20 series sweep over Australia.

Woods angrily fends off querries relating to his private life

FLORIDA – Anger apparently simmered in golfer Tiger Woods eyes as he interacted with media over issues relating to his private life.

The world No 1 was at his staccato, excruciating worst fending off questions about why he was heading home so soon, reports The Age.

Pressed on why he would not be refining his links golf …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Woods angrily fends off querries relating to his private life.

Ozil will rule the world even if Germany fails to beat Spain: Klose

LONDON – Germany’s striker Miroslav Klose, who is just a goal away from becoming the World Cup’s all-time leading goal scorer, believes that teammate Mesut Ozil will rule the world even if Germany fail to beat Spain in their semi-final encounter.

Ozil has emerged as one of the finds of the World Cup, helping to destroy …. Source article  : Ozil will rule the world even if Germany fails to beat Spain: Klose.

Spain bulls gore 2 in scary Pamplona run, 5 more injured on fiesta’s 2nd day

Spain bulls gore 2 in scary run, 5 more injured

PAMPLONA, Spain – Two people were gored Thursday during a tense and dangerous second running of the bulls at Spain’s famed San Fermin fiesta, and at least five other people were hospitalized after falling or being trampled by the hulking beasts, officials said.
Thousands took part in … Read more >>.

Spanish media full of praise for Del Bosque’s heroes

MADRID – The Spanish media was euphoric over coach Vicente del Bosque’s team Thursday after they reached a first World Cup final, outplaying Germany 1-0.

The impressive win was front-page news in every Spanish newspaper Thursday, with the headlines expressing admiration for the way that La Roja dominated the semi-final in Durban Thursday from start to …. Source article  : Spanish media full of praise for Del Bosque’s heroes.

D.E.L.H.I. spells hospitality by volunteers for Games (Commonwealth Games Countdown)

(Attn Editors: This is the ninth of the 100-day countdown series for the 19th Commonwealth Games in New Delhi. The piece is about how the Games have brought out the spirit of volunteering like never before.)NEW DELHI – D for Diversity, E for Enterprising, L for Legacy, H for History and I for Incredible India-this …. Original article  : D.E.L.H.I. spells hospitality by volunteers for Games (Commonwealth Games Countdown).

Former Oz stripper to open Youth Olympic Games in Singapore

MELBOURNE – A former Sydney stripper is set to put pole dancing on to the world stage after being picked to choreograph part of the opening ceremony for the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore next month.

“Bobbi”, who owns Bobbi’s Pole Studios, said she never imagined she could make an international career out of exotic …. Source article  : Former Oz stripper to open Youth Olympic Games in Singapore.

Ballack should quit as Germany played better without him: Matthaus

CAPE TOWN – German football legend Lothar Matthaus has said that injured skipper Michael Ballack should consider quitting international football.

Matthaus’s comments comes after an ‘inexperienced’ German squad reached the semi-finals of this year’s FIFA World Cup in South Africa before being eliminated by Spain.

“Germany have played better without Ballack and have had more success. … Read more : Ballack should quit as Germany played better without him: Matthaus.

Van Persie keen to emulate Maradona’s 1986 WC glory celebrations

CAPE TOWN – Netherlands forward Robin van Persie has said his ultimate dream is to emulate boyhood hero Diego Maradona’s way of lifting the World Cup trophy in 1986.

Van Persie also has a photograph of Maradona holding the trophy, which will serve as his inspiration ahead of Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain at … Original source on Gaea Times at : Van Persie keen to emulate Maradona’s 1986 WC glory celebrations.

Afridi asks team for more consistency to make winning a habit

ISLAMABAD – After pocketing the T-20 series against Australia 2-0, Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has demanded more consistency from his team, saying it was important to make winning a habit to remain in the top league.

“The key is for us to develop a habit of winning matches more regularly and consistently like other top …. Source article  : Afridi asks team for more consistency to make winning a habit.

Back-to-back T20 wins over Aussies will help Pak in Tests: Waqar

BIRMINGHAM – Pakistan’s morale boosting 2-0 win over Australia in the T20 series has delighted coach Waqar Younis, who believes the two back-to-back victories against the formidable Kangaroos would certainly help his side in the upcoming Test series.

“I think these two wins are really going to help us to get into the momentum. Test … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Back-to-back T20 wins over Aussies will help Pak in Tests: Waqar.

Iranian official rejects female football team’s headgear

TEHRAN – An Iranian official has rejected a new women’s football strip which was created after the world football federation banned the team from international competition due to their Islamic headgear.

Football’s world-governing body FIFA banned the team in April after the Iranian Olympic Committee insisted they play in headscarves.

In Iran, all women are required … Read more >>.

Spanish coach already focused on World Cup final against Netherlands

DURBAN – Spanish coach Vicente Del Bosque has said that nothing beats reaching the World Cup final, “apart from winning it”.

Spain booked a place in their first World Cup final by defeating three-time winners Germany 1-0 in Wednesday’s semi-finals.

Carles Puyol’s header in the 73rd minute set up an all-European final showdown with the Netherlands …. Source article  : Spanish coach already focused on World Cup final against Netherlands.

Flintoff on comeback trail with schoolboy club

LONDON – England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff, who continues his rehabilitation from knee surgery, has been given the green light to play for the club he first joined as a 12-year-old.

Flintoff had earlier requested to turn out for the Northern League club side St Annes.

“Fred has seen his consultant and is about six …. Original article  : Flintoff on comeback trail with schoolboy club.

McLaren ‘love-in’ between Hamilton and Button will turn sour: Webber

LONDON – Red Bull racing driver Mark Webber reckons the ‘friendly relations’ between McLaren teammates Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button will end up messy when the Formula One title fight heats up.

The McLaren duo have so far developed a solid relationship in the wake of Button’s entry into the team, despite many suggesting his …. Source article  : McLaren ‘love-in’ between Hamilton and Button will turn sour: Webber.

Pakistan should not get carried away by T20 triumph over Oz, say former greats

KARACHI – Pakistan should not get carried away by their T20 series sweep over Australia, as Ricky Ponting’s men would be a hard nut to crack during the upcoming Test series, former Pakistan cricketers have said.
Former leg-spinner Abdul Qadir said the 2-0 win in the T20 series was great, but it should …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan should not get carried away by T20 triumph over Oz, say former greats.

John Terry’s ‘mistress’ Vanessa Perroncel insists she’s no gold digger

LONDON – French lingerie model Vanessa Perroncel, whose rumoured affair with soccer star John Terry cost him the England captaincy, has spoken out in her defence.

Vanessa has denied claims that she slept with Terry behind the back of her ex Wayne Bridge.

“He was my friend. I’d known him for eight years. I split up …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : John Terry’s ‘mistress’ Vanessa Perroncel insists she’s no gold digger.

Muralitharan does not deserve ‘highest wicket-taker’ record, Warne does: Emerson

SYDNEY – The Australian umpire, who called off-spinner Muttiah Muralitharan for chucking, does not believe that the Sri Lankan deserves to retire as the most prolific Test wicket-taker of all time.

“I haven’t changed my view in 15 years – he doesn’t deserve the record,” The Courier Mail quoted Ross Emerson, as saying.

Emerson was banished from …. Read the original article  : Muralitharan does not deserve ‘highest wicket-taker’ record, Warne does: Emerson.

Australia prepared for Test series against Pakistan: Nielsen

LONDON – Australian coach Tim Nielsen has said there was no point moaning about limited preparation time for the Test series against Pakistan.
Australia will play a two-day tour match against Derbyshire before next week’s opening Test at Lord’s against Pakistan.
“It is going to have to (be enough time), that is … Read : Australia prepared for Test series against Pakistan: Nielsen.

Cristiano names his son after himself

LONDON – Dashing Portugal footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has named his son, reportedly born from a surrogate mother, after himself, said a family member.

The senior Ronaldo is currently on a holiday in the US with his Russian model girlfriend Irina Shayk after leaving his son with his mother and sister.
“The baby is doing very … Read more »»».

Williams Blames Common For Lack Of Relationship ‘responsibility’

Tennis champ SERENA WILLIAMS has broken her silence about her romance with COMMON, blaming the rapper/actor for the break-up of their relationship.
The couple was rumoured to have ended its two-year relationship in April (10) and the hip-hop star recently confirmed he was no longer dating Williams by insisting he was “definitely … Read more »».

Jermaine o Neal Contract with the Boston Celtics?

BOSTON (GaeaTimes.com) — While Lebron James is rumored as joining Knicks, Jermaine o Neal is not missed. According to Yahoo Sports, the basketball star is signing a deal with the Celtics.
Well, you must know that there are other two teams playing the tag of war to pull O’Neal at their end. Denver and Dallas … Read : Jermaine o Neal Contract with the Boston Celtics?.

Lance Armstrong banks on experience, mental strength as he tries to rally at Tour

Armstrong banks on experience to cut Tour gap

REIMS, France – After enduring early bad luck in his bid for an eighth Tour de France title, Lance Armstrong is now banking on experience and mental strength.
He knows that fortunes can change quickly in cycling’s toughest event.
One day after a punctured tire cost him valuable time to … Read : Lance Armstrong banks on experience, mental strength as he tries to rally at Tour.

Gurgaon in preparation mode for CWG shooting event

GURGAON – Authorities in this satellite town of the national capital are gearing up to host the shooting event of the Commonwealth Games with various plans for disaster management and emergencies in the pipeline.

The fire department has been asked to prepare a disaster management plan for the shooting event, officials said Friday.
“The plan … Read : Gurgaon in preparation mode for CWG shooting event.

Ashley Cole’s glamour girl landed in two sex scandals while at a top school

London, July (ANI): Elle Hartley, who is holidaying with England footballer Ashley Cole, landed in two sex scandals while at a top school.

The glamour girl, 20, sparked an uproar when she sent a video of pleasuring herself with a sex toy to boyfriend’s mobile at the age of 15 – only to find it … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ashley Cole’s glamour girl landed in two sex scandals while at a top school.

Malaysians’ sex lives not affected by World Cup

KUALA LUMPUR – A survey has shown that despite staying up late to watch the World Cup matches, the sex lives of Malaysians have not been affected.

The Star-Adidas Loudest Noise Survey found that only 2 percent of those who answered “Yes” said they quarrelled with their spouse or partner because of the matches and only [..] Read the original article: here.

Spain bulls gore 1 runner, toss others into air in 3rd race of San Fermin fest

Spain bulls gore 1 runner, toss others into air

PAMPLONA, Spain – One man was gored and two others injured in a panic-filled third running of the bulls Friday at Spain’s San Fermin festival that saw at least three people sent airborne by the beasts.
One of the six bulls caused more chaos when he separated from …. Original source  : Spain bulls gore 1 runner, toss others into air in 3rd race of San Fermin fest.

Pat Riley And The Trio

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Miami Heat team president Pat Riley has received immense praise after LeBron James announced that he is heading for the Miami Heats on Thursday. Considered one of the most successful coaches in the NBA, Pat Riley has played a crucial role in bringing together the fabulous combination of LeBron James, Chris … Read more >>>.

Lang in lead, wants to stay there, at US Women’s Open

Lang surprises with 69 at US Women’s Open
OAKMONT, Pa. – Brittany Lang knows what it is like to lead the U.S. Women’s Open after one round. What she is determined to do this time is be in front after the final round, too.

“It’s out there if you want it,” Lang said after her opening-round 69 … Read more »»».

Indian team leaves for Sri Lanka, Dhoni to join Saturday

CHENNAI – The Indian team left on Friday for Sri Lanka to play three Tests and a tri-nation ODI series, starting July 18.
Skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni will join the team a day later as he is to receive an honorary membership of the Madras Cricket Club this evening.
Reserve stumper Wriddhiman Saha … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indian team leaves for Sri Lanka, Dhoni to join Saturday.

After triple in Italy, Wesley Sneijder is going for 4th trophy in World Cup final

After triple in Italy, Sneijder goes for World Cup

JOHANNESBURG – Besides leading his team to the World Cup final, Dutch star Wesley Sneijder can make some history as an individual player.
Already, Sneijder has a triple of titles to his credit this season with Inter Milan – Italian league, cup and Champions League – and he …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : After triple in Italy, Wesley Sneijder is going for 4th trophy in World Cup final.

Many Afrikaners cheer for Netherlands in World Cup final because of Dutch heritage

Afrikaners for Dutch in WCup because of heritage

JOHANNESBURG – For some South Africans, there is still a “home” team to cheer for in the World Cup final.
When the Netherlands faces Spain on Sunday at Soccer City, a sizable portion of the Afrikaner population will be watching closely, and mostly because of their Dutch roots.
“I feel … Read more : Many Afrikaners cheer for Netherlands in World Cup final because of Dutch heritage.

Tiger Woods’ wife ‘may take kids to Sweden post-divorce’

NEW YORK – Tiger Woods’ wife Elin Nordegren may reportedly head back to Sweden with her kids, Sam, 3, and Charlie, 2, after her official split with the golfer.
According to the sources, one of the terms in the couple’s divorce agreement stipulates that Nordegren has permission to take her two … Read more >>>.

Tough Tour de France start has 7-time winner Armstrong pining for old days

Tough Tour start has Armstrong pining for old days

MONTARGIS, France – The dangerously chaotic start to this year’s Tour de France has seven-time champion Lance Armstrong pining for another era of cycling, when a handful of riders controlled races and risks were easier to limit.
Even though riders have been in the saddle for only six …. Read the original article  : here.

Future dim for South Africa’s World Cup stadia

JOHANNESBURG – For the past month the world has oohed and aahed at the bevy of glittering football stadia built by South Africa for the World Cup.

From Johannesburg’s Soccer City to Cape Town’s Green Point Stadium and Durban’s Moses Mabhida, the architectural and technological mastery on show in the six new (or nearly new in …. Source  : Future dim for South Africa’s World Cup stadia.

‘Bond’ Button and ‘villain’ Hamilton dismiss Webber’s suggestions of messy spat

LONDON – British Formula One racing drivers Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button have dismissed Red Bull driver Mark Webber’s suggestions of a growing feud between the McLaren teammates.

Hamilton, leading the current standings, entered into the spirit of things by kidding their relationship had entered the realm of James Bond.

“We’re working very much on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Bond’ Button and ‘villain’ Hamilton dismiss Webber’s suggestions of messy spat.

Fernando Torres thanks Kasabian for helping Spain reach WC final

LONDON – Spanish footballer Fernando Torres has thanked British rock band Kasabian for helping Spain get to the World Cup final.

Torres, 26, who is a huge fan of the band and plays their songs before every big game, paid tribute to them.

“Club Foot has got us to the final, so I would like to give …. Original article  : Fernando Torres thanks Kasabian for helping Spain reach WC final.

Dutch and Spanish football closely connected for 40 years

MADRID – In many ways it is appropriate that Spain’s opponents in Sunday’s World Cup final will be the Netherlands.

For almost 200 years the Netherlands were Spanish colonies, and the Spanish influence can still be perceived there in architecture and art.
With regards to football, both countries share a tradition of attractive, attacking football, and … Read : Dutch and Spanish football closely connected for 40 years.

BBC sacks Bleakley over romance with footie star Lampard

LONDON – BBC One Show babe Christine Bleakley has been sensationally sacked by the company for romancing England football star Frank Lampard.

The presenter was supposed to return to The One Show sofa next week for her last two months at its helm, the Daily Star reports.

But the show’s top brass have pulled the plug … Read : BBC sacks Bleakley over romance with footie star Lampard.

Indian helps Kiwis take bronze at ‘Nerd Olympics’in Poland

AUCKLAND – An Indian has helped New Zealand to win the bronze medal at this year’s Nerd Olympics.

Vinny Kumar and three others — Kayo Lakadia, Steve Ward, Chanyeol Yoo-secured the 2010 Microsoft Imagine Cup.

The Auckland University engineering students helped New Zealand secure the best result at the prestigious event in Poland, stuff.co.nz reports. … Read more >>.

Hussey, Ponting hit centuries to rescue Australia from warm-up embarrassment

LONDON – Australian batsman Mike Hussey and skipper Ricky Ponting rescued the Aussies from a potentially embarrassing outing against Derbyshire in their only warm-up game before next week’s first Test against Pakistan at Lord’s.
The visitors lost three early wickets and were reeling at 3-47 before centuries from the pair laid the foundations … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hussey, Ponting hit centuries to rescue Australia from warm-up embarrassment.

World Cup-forecasting parakeet becomes Singapore sensation, picks Netherlands in final

S’pore World Cup-forecasting parakeet picks Dutch

SINGAPORE – A crowd of soccer fans leans forward as Mani, Singapore’s World Cup-forecasting parakeet, creeps out of his small wooden cage and chooses between two white cards – one hiding the flag of the Netherlands, the other Spain.
If the bird’s many new believers are right, Holland will win its …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : World Cup-forecasting parakeet becomes Singapore sensation, picks Netherlands in final.

1 person gored in panic-filled 3rd running of the bulls at Spain’s San Fermin festival

1 gored in 3rd San Fermin bull run
PAMPLONA, Spain – One man was gored and two others injured in a panic-filled third running of the bulls Friday at Spain’s San Fermin festival.

The run lasted 6 minutes, 23 seconds – more than double the usual time – after one of the six bulls separated from the …. Original article  : 1 person gored in panic-filled 3rd running of the bulls at Spain’s San Fermin festival.

Over 1000 Chinese juggle footballs to set new Guinness record

NEW DELHI – China has set a new Guinness World Record after 1062 people juggled footballs for 10 seconds together to refresh an existing record on Saturday.

According to Xinhua, among the 1062, was 14-year-old schoolchild Song Zixin, who …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Dry conditions expected for World Cup final

JOHANNESBURG – The World Cup football final between Spain and the Netherlands here Sunday will be played in dry conditions, according to the latest forecast from the South African Weather Service.

The tournament’s closing match kicks off at 1830 GMT at Soccer City here while the closing ceremony headed by Colombian singer Shakira begins two hours … Read more : Dry conditions expected for World Cup final.

Even without LeBron, Boozer likes what he sees in Chicago

Boozer: Teams can’t fear Heat
DEERFIELD, Ill. – Carlos Boozer sees championship potential in Chicago, even without LeBron James. And he insists the Bulls aren’t conceding anything.

The King’s announcement that he’s uniting with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in a powerhouse trio that could make Miami the favorite in the Eastern Conference for years to come … Read more >>>.

J.J. Redick Set To Join The Chicago Bulls?

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- Restricted Free Agent J.J. Redick is the latest player to have caught the attention of the Chicago Bulls who are reportedly interested to sign him for their team. As per rumors, J.J. Redick has signed an offer-sheet on Friday with the Chicago Bulls who have offered him a three-year, $20 million …. Original article  : J.J. Redick Set To Join The Chicago Bulls?.

Windies spinner Benn suspended for ICC Code of Conduct breach

DUBAI – West Indies spinner Sulieman Benn has been suspended for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during his team’s third Test match against South Africa in Barbados.

Benn pleaded guilty to a Level 2 breach of the code after admitting to behaviour that was contrary …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tipsy Gazza claims he use to provide criminal Moat with lager and chicken

LONDON – Former England football hero Paul Gascoigne has claimed that he was a pal of fugitive Raoul Moat a.k.a. “Moaty”.

Gazza claimed that he use to bring Moaty lager and chicken.

He told Tyneside’s Metro Radio: “He is willing to give in now. I just …. Original source  : Tipsy Gazza claims he use to provide criminal Moat with lager and chicken.

Kyle Korver Leaves Utah Jazz

Los Angeles (GaeaTimes.com)- Kyle Korver has reportedly signed a three years contract with Chicago Bulls of National Basketball Association yesterday. The sharp shooting free agent swingman Kyle Korver has left his former team Utah Jazz for Chicago Bulls with a deal of $15 million. The player expressed his excitement in an interview and said …. Source article  : Kyle Korver Leaves Utah Jazz.

Trouble for Sahara over Queen’s Baton

LUCKNOW – Sahara is in trouble for displaying an imitation of the Queen’s Baton for the Commonwealth Games here Saturday. Authorities plan to take legal action against company officials for disrespecting the baton, an official said.

After the customary run of the baton here, it was taken to Rai Bareilly. But some officials of Sahara … Original article on : Trouble for Sahara over Queen’s Baton.

Road to Soccer City – Spain’s final preparations

POTCHEFSTROOM – The play stations, the playing cards, the books and clothes were all packed up ready for Spain’s last trip of this World Cup – the one that takes them to the final.

Vincente del Bosque’s squad left the quiet town of Potchefstroom Saturday and headed for Johannesburg where they meet the Netherlands in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Road to Soccer City – Spain’s final preparations.

Kieswetter under pressure to perform for England

LONDON – South African-born Craig Kieswetter, who has just managed 69 runs in five innings against the Aussies, is reportedly under pressure to perform as Andrew Strauss’ partner at the top of the order.

Kieswetter’s form has slumped alarmingly after his spectacular efforts during England’s triumph in the World Twenty20 in May.

According to The … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kieswetter under pressure to perform for England.

Champ designs high-tech laser peashooter to retain title

LONDON – A four-time World Peashooting Championships winner has created his own peashooter – complete with lasers.

George Hollis, 59, is an electrical engineer who has designed an assassin-style peashooter – his weapon for the upcoming world peashooting championship this year.

His ‘gun’ even has a laser sight and grip and shoulder rest for stability.

Today he takes [..] Read the original article: here.

Indiana Fever heat up before All-Star break after shaky start

Fever hot heading into All-Star break
INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Fever are on a roll and looking like a team that could return to the WNBA finals.

Indiana (11-6) heads into the All-Star break having won six of its past eight games, but is just third in the Eastern Conference behind Atlanta and Washington. Fourth-place Connecticut is … Read more »»».

On the write path? Kim might need to update book if she wins US Women’s Open

Confident Kim in good position at US Women’s Open

OAKMONT, Pa. – Christina Kim recently co-authored a funny and insightful book about her LPGA career and the inner workings of women’s golf.
Perhaps she was a bit premature in writing it, because she possibly left out the best part. The one that details her winning the U.S. …. Source article  : On the write path? Kim might need to update book if she wins US Women’s Open.

Lance Armstrong heads into Tour de France mountains with team confident of shaking things up

Armstrong’s team hope mountains will shake up Tour

GUEUGNON, France – The Tour de France heads into the mountains after a crash-filed opening week, and Lance Armstrong’s team is confident that the seven-time champion will start clawing time back off his main rivals.
The 38-year-old Armstrong started the Tour with a strong prologue on the opening day …. Read the original article  : here.

Taiwan plans to join World Cup in 2038

TAIPEI – Taiwan plans to participate in the World Cup football tournament by 2038, a sports official said Saturday.

Lu Kun-shan, director of the Chinese-Taipei Football Association, said the World Cup in South Africa should stimulate Taiwan to develop its football capabilities.
The association hopes to launch a 12-team professional league in 2018, attend the … Read more >>>.

World Cup trophy to have new name on it

JOHANNESBURG – Even if the outcome of Sunday’s World Cup final between Spain and the Netherlands is uncertain, one thing is clear: There will be a new name on the trophy.

Neither Spain nor the Netherlands have won the competition, and at the end of the match at Soccer City in Soweto on the outskirts of …. Source article  : World Cup trophy to have new name on it.

Waqar backs ‘unimpressive’ Asif ahead of first Test against Australia

LONDON – Pakistan fast bowler Mohammed Asif has received coach Waqar Younis’ backing despite his lacklustre performance in the two-day practice game against Leicestershire, ahead of the first Test against Australia starting July 13 at Lord’s.

Asif, who did not feature in Pakistan’s 2-0 triumph over the Kangaroos in the T20 series, looked rusty …. Source  : Waqar backs ‘unimpressive’ Asif ahead of first Test against Australia.

Brazilian footballer accused of killing former girlfriend and ‘feeding body parts to dogs’

RIO DE JANEIRO – Brazilian police believe that local football star Bruno Fernandes strangled his ‘missing’ former girlfriend and then fed her body parts to dogs.

Fernandes, until recently captain and goalkeeper of Brazil’s most popular club, Flamengo, has been the primary suspect in the killing of 25-year-old Eliza Samudio, who disappeared on June …. Read the original article  : Brazilian footballer accused of killing former girlfriend and ‘feeding body parts to dogs’.

UAE issues fatwa against ‘haram’ vuvuzelas

DUBAI – A fatwa has been issued against vuvuzelas in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), saying that the plastic horns will not be permitted in the Gulf country if they exceed 100 decibels.

UAE’s General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments has issued the fatwa.

According to reports, the ruling came after thousands …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Platini hospitalized after fainting in South African restaurant

JOHANNESBURG – UEFA President and French football legend Michel Platini was rushed to hospital after fainting in a Johannesburg restaurant.

Platini, who has been UEFA President since January 2007, was having dinner at Johannesburg’s Le Pigalle restaurant in Sandton.

Initial fears that the 55-year-old may have suffered a heart attack were quickly ruled out by … Original source on Gaea Times at : Platini hospitalized after fainting in South African restaurant.

Topless models raise fund for New Zealand rugby club

AUCKLAND – A popular rugby club in New Zealand has been facing criticism for using topless models at a fundraising event.

The stunt led to calls for the New Zealand Rugby Union to confront sexist attitudes within the game. The Auckland University Rugby Football Club hired semi-naked women to parade around at its annual pretest luncheon … Read more >>>.

Tough to wrestle Ashes from England, says Waugh

SYDNEY – Australia’s former skipper Steve Waugh, who is a philanthropist providing seriously ill children and their families with hope and comfort, has said it will be tough to wrestle the Ashes from England.

Australia still boasts a good team, but Waugh believes some of their competitors have caught them. Most importantly, he insists, children … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tough to wrestle Ashes from England, says Waugh.

Waugh wants Australia, New Zealand to “go hard” on Howard’s rejection

SYDNEY – Australia’s former skipper Steve Waugh, who is a philanthropist providing seriously ill children and their families with hope and comfort, wants Cricket Australia and New Zealand to “go hard” and demand to know why former Prime Minister John Howard’s candidature as the International Cricket Council’s vice-president was overturned by the powerful Afro-Asia bloc. … Read more : Waugh wants Australia, New Zealand to “go hard” on Howard’s rejection.

Benitez made my life miserable at Liverpool: Benayoun

LONDON – Israeli midfielder Yossi Benayoun has accused former Liverpool coach Rafa Benitez of making his life a misery at the club.

Benitez left Liverpool at the end of the season after a disastrous trophy less campaign, which ended with the Reds failing to even qualify for the Champions League.

Benayoun reveals the truth about … Original article on : Benitez made my life miserable at Liverpool: Benayoun.

1 person gored, at least 3 hurt, in packed running of the bulls at Spain’s San Fermin festival

1 person gored in Spain’s running of the bulls

PAMPLONA, Spain – A runner was gored in the leg and three others needed hospital treatment after a very busy fifth running of the bulls at Spain’s San Fermin festival on Sunday, doctors and officials said.
Several other people received roadside medical treatment after tripping and falling in …. Source article  : 1 person gored, at least 3 hurt, in packed running of the bulls at Spain’s San Fermin festival.

Bangladesh stun England with five run win in second ODI at Bristol

BRISTOL – Bangladesh registered their first win in 25 matches by handing out a humiliating five run defeat to England in the second game of the three match one-day international series here.

Bangladesh successfully defended a paltry total of 237 to bowl England out for 231 with three balls to spare.

England collapsed to 115 for five … Original article on : Bangladesh stun England with five run win in second ODI at Bristol.

Australia’s legendary doubles pair ‘Woodies’ inducted into Tennis Hall of Fame

MELBOURNE – Famous doubles partners from Australia, Todd Woodbridge and Mark Woodforde, were into inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in the United States along with seven other pairs.

Woodbridge and Woodforde known as the ‘Woodies’ were inducted along with women’s doubles partners Gigi Fernandez and Natasha Zvereva.

“This is an amazing day for …. Read the original article  : Australia’s legendary doubles pair ‘Woodies’ inducted into Tennis Hall of Fame.

End of the road for vuvuzelas

LONDON – Vuvuzelas, the deafening plastic trumpets, which have attracted complaints from viewers and players alike at this year’s FIFA World Cup in South Africa, have been banned from the next World Cup in Brazil.

The 127-decibel horn, which left fans reaching for ear plugs in South Africa, is to be banned in 2014.

However, it … Read more >>.

Now, Malaysian parakeet Meena predicts Spanish win in WC final

KUALA LUMPUR – Meena Kutti is Malaysia’s own version of Paul the octopus and Mani the parakeet, is the latest to predict a Spanish victory in tonight’s World Cup final..

Meena Kutti, an 8-year-old green parakeet, is one of the last few birds still used by its owner, M.C. Mohan, to predict his customers’ fortunes. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Now, Malaysian parakeet Meena predicts Spanish win in WC final.

Grand slam from Jose Lopez caps Seattle’s 8th inning rally to stun Yankees 4-1

Lopez slam, Hernandez pitching beats Yankees 4-1
SEATTLE – Jose Lopez hit his second career grand slam off Joba Chamberlain in the eighth inning, and Felix Hernandez outlasted Javier Vazquez to lead the Seattle Mariners to a come-from-behind 4-1 victory over the New York Yankees on Saturday night.
Held hitless into the sixth inning by … Original article on : Grand slam from Jose Lopez caps Seattle’s 8th inning rally to stun Yankees 4-1.

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Revolution end 347-minute scoreless drought, beat Galaxy 2-0

Revolution end scoreless drought, beat Galaxy 2-0

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – Marko Perovic’s goal in the 67th minute snapped New England’s 347-minute scoreless streak, and the Revolution beat the league-leading Los Angeles Galaxy 2-0 Saturday night.
Perovic’s blast off a free kick was the first Revolution goal since the May 29 match against the New York Red Bulls. [..] Read the original article: here.

Braun’s opportunistic goals give Chivas USA 2-0 win over Wizards

Braun’s goals give Chivas USA 2-0 win over Wizards

KANSAS CITY, Kan. – Justin Braun converted two defensive lapses into second-half goals, and Chivas USA beat the Kansas City Wizards 2-0 on Saturday night for its first victory in more than two months.
Chivas (4-9-2) earned its first league win since beating New England 4-0 on May … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Braun’s opportunistic goals give Chivas USA 2-0 win over Wizards.

Athletics 15, Angels 1

Athletics 15, Angels 1

Los Angeles

Oakland

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Aldridg rf … Original article on : Athletics 15, Angels 1.

Davis hits slam to help A’s hand Kazmir worst beating ever for Angels pitcher in 15-1 victory

A’s score 13 off Kazmir in 15-1 win over Angels

OAKLAND, Calif. – Rajai Davis capped Oakland’s biggest inning of the season with a grand slam and the Athletics handed Scott Kazmir the worst pounding ever for an Angels pitcher in a 15-1 victory over Los Angeles on Saturday night.
Kazmir (7-9) allowed eight runs in the [..] Read the original article: here.

Jason Hammel wins again, Rockies hit 3 HRs to beat Padres 4-2 for 6th straight win

Hammel pitches Rockies to 6th straight win

DENVER – Jason Hammel extended his career-best winning streak to six games, Carlos Gonzalez hit one of Colorado’s three home runs and the Rockies beat the San Diego Padres 4-2 on Saturday night for their season-high sixth straight victory.
The Rockies have had three dramatic comeback wins in the late … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jason Hammel wins again, Rockies hit 3 HRs to beat Padres 4-2 for 6th straight win.

Snyder follows stolen homer with two-run shot, helping Diamondbacks beat Marlins 5-4

Snyder hits two-run shot in D-backs’ 5-4 win

PHOENIX – Chris Snyder hit a two-run homer after having one stolen by Chris Coghlan the inning before and Stephen Drew sparked Arizona’s offense from the top of the order, lifting the Diamondbacks to a bizarre 5-4 win over the Florida Marlins on Saturday night.
Mark Reynolds hit his … Read more >>>.

Diamondbacks 5, Marlins 4

Diamondbacks 5, Marlins 4

Florida

Arizona

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GSnchz 1b … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Diamondbacks 5, Marlins 4.

Tillman’s near no-hitter spoils Lee’s debut, Orioles beat AL West-leading Texas 6-1

Lee’s complete debut in Texas spoiled by Orioles
ARLINGTON, Texas – Cliff Lee’s complete-game debut for the Texas Rangers was spoiled by Chris Tillman, who took a no-hitter into the seventh inning and led the Baltimore Orioles to a 6-1 victory over the AL West leaders on Saturday night.
Lee, the 2008 AL Cy Young … Read : Tillman’s near no-hitter spoils Lee’s debut, Orioles beat AL West-leading Texas 6-1.

Portland Trail Blazers sign Utah’s Wesley Matthews to an offer sheet

Trail Blazers sign Matthews to offer sheet

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Portland Trail Blazers have signed restricted free-agent guard Wesley Matthews to an offer sheet.
Matthews spent last season playing for the Utah Jazz as a rookie. The Jazz have seven days to match the offer. Financial details of the contract offer, announced Saturday by the Trail …. Original source  : Portland Trail Blazers sign Utah’s Wesley Matthews to an offer sheet.

Sangakkara calls for equity on tours

COLOMBO – Sri Lankan cricket captain Kumar Sangakkara has urged world cricket chiefs to balance the international calendar via the provision of a more equitable Future Tours Programme.

Sangakkara said global viewership of the sport had dwindled … Read : Sangakkara calls for equity on tours.

England has to blame itself for loss to Bangladesh: Strauss

LONDON – Skipper Andrew Strauss has said that England has only itself to blame for the five-run defeat in the second one-day international played in Bristol on Saturday.

“For us it’s about going away, licking our wounds and making sure we don’t repeat the same …. Source article  : England has to blame itself for loss to Bangladesh: Strauss.

Pak rookie Umar Amin set for Test debut at Lord’s

LONDON – Pakistan rookie Umar Amin is set for a Test debut in Tuesday’s opening match of the ‘home’ series against Australia at Lord’s.

The left-handed batsman may be included in the team for one available slot at the one-down position, ahead of Yasir Hameed and Azhar Ali.

“Umer has a better chance ahead of others as …. Source  : Pak rookie Umar Amin set for Test debut at Lord’s.

German team makes low-key return home after third-place finish at World Cup

German team returns gome after third-place finish

FRANKFURT, Germany – Germany’s World Cup team has made a low-key return home after a campaign which ended with a third-place finish.
Midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger said after the squad landed in Frankfurt on Monday that “every player is disappointed we went out in the semifinal” but said Spain, which beat … Read more »».

Hussey predicts Pak’s batting depth will be tested

LONDON – Australian middle-order batsman Mike Hussey has said that Pakistan’s batting depth faces a stern test against his country’s bowlers in the absence of tried performers like Mohammad Yousuf and Younus Khan.

According to Hussey, the absence of these two classy batsmen has left a major hole in Pakistan’s middle order.

“I think their depth is …. Original source  : Hussey predicts Pak’s batting depth will be tested.

Closing Ceremony Of FIFA 2010 A Big Hit

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA (GaeaTimes.com)- A month has passed since the World Cup 2010 commenced in South Africa this year. Considering it is such a grand affair, the tournament saw a fitting end with not only one of the most exciting matches between Spain and the Netherlands, but also some equally exciting performances by Shakira …. Original source  : Closing Ceremony Of FIFA 2010 A Big Hit.

Chad Ochocinco In Smallscreen Again

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Chad Ochocinco is back to the world of reality television show and this time he aims to find his love in front of the cameras. The whole new show titled “Ochocinco: The Ultimate Catch” will have Chad Ochocinco dating around 17 beautiful women who will all compete to get the attention …. Source  : Chad Ochocinco In Smallscreen Again.

Bitter orange: Dutch digest 3rd World Cup final defeat after 1-0 loss to Spain in Johannesburg

Dutch dejection: 3rd World Cup final loss sinks in

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – The Netherlands woke to a World Cup hangover Monday following its 1-0 extra time loss to Spain in the final in Johannesburg.
Among the headlines in Dutch newspapers was “Not Again” above pictures of dejected Dutch players following the final whistle. The Netherlands also …. Read the original article  : Bitter orange: Dutch digest 3rd World Cup final defeat after 1-0 loss to Spain in Johannesburg.

Dani Jarque Remembered By Winners Spain

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA (GaeaTimes.com)- Dani Jarque, the player from Spain who had lost his life as a result of a heart attack in the month of August last year, was remembered by the Spanish team after their spectacular win last night in South Africa. Andres Iniesta may have scored the winning goal for Spain …. Source article  : Dani Jarque Remembered By Winners Spain.

Lance didn’t come back for this: playing out the string, with suspicion again on his tail

Armstrong: Obviously, the Tour is finished for me

There are two days in every great athlete’s comeback that somehow still catch us by surprise.
The day he announces it. And the day that removes any lingering doubts whether it was a good idea in the first place.
Lance Armstrong suffered through one of the latter Sunday at the … Read more >>>.

Dutch indulged in ‘total thuggery’, entertaining Spain rightful winners

LONDON – Spain were rightly crowned world champions for the first time after beating The Netherlands in the final of the FIFA World Cup one nil, as they provided a brand of entertaining football rarely seen in recent times.

The Dutch, on the other hand, indulged in “total thuggery”, and were, according to The Sun, a … Read : Dutch indulged in ‘total thuggery’, entertaining Spain rightful winners.

Why world’s swiftest sprinters are of African origin

WASHINGTON – Scientists may have uncovered why the world’s fastest sprinters are usually of West African origin. The centre of gravity tends to be located higher on the body of blacks than whites, according to new research.

However, the research team – Adrian Bejan, professor of engineering at Duke’s Pratt School of Engineering, Edward …. Source article  : Why world’s swiftest sprinters are of African origin.

PCB offers no fresh contract to selector Salim Jaffer

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) national selector Salim Jaffer appears to have fallen out of favour with the board, as he has not been offered any fresh contract to continue with his job.

The contracts of the selectors will expire on July 31.

According to reports, fresh offer letters have been sent to all …. Source article  : PCB offers no fresh contract to selector Salim Jaffer.

Oz cricket fraternity welcomes ethnic broadening of national selection

MELBOURNE – The Australian cricket fraternity has welcomed the broader selections at the national level over the past year, and according to those involved with the sport, it is being seen as great news for the estimated 20,000 junior players who hail from ethnically-diverse communities.

The Age quoted Seb Kipman, a community programs officer with Cricket …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Oz cricket fraternity welcomes ethnic broadening of national selection.

Octopus Paul has cost punters up to half a million quid

LONDON – Octopus Paul has cost punters up to half a million quid after correctly backing Spain to beat Holland in the FIFA World Cup final.

According to The Sun, Paul ignored a Dutch flag and picked food from a jar bearing Spain’s colours. The latter duly went on to win 1-0.

It completed an incredible winning …. Source  : Octopus Paul has cost punters up to half a million quid.

Ashley Cole girls: “We don’t even fancy him. He’s ugly”

LONDON – The two British girls, who were seen holidaying with English footballer Ashley Cole, have denied they had anything to do with him, saying that they don’t even fancy him.

Students Elle Hartley and Melissa Niak, both 20 and from Sheffield, said that their Los Angeles break with Cole, 29, has made them outcasts back … Read more >>.

7-time champion Lance Armstrong accepts Tour de France defeat after day of mishap, crashes

Lance Armstrong finally resigned to Tour defeat

MORZINE, France – Lance Armstrong promised a shake things up in the French Alps, but the seven-time Tour de France champion was feeling shaken after one of his worst ever days racing.
Armstrong used to be the one punishing others when the Tour hit the harsh mountains, but Armstrong suffered …. Read the original article  : 7-time champion Lance Armstrong accepts Tour de France defeat after day of mishap, crashes.

Thumb’s up: Paula Creamer, still healing from thumb injury, wins US Women’s Open

Thumb’s up: Injured Creamer wins US Women’s Open

OAKMONT, Pa. – Her left hand so badly injured she couldn’t play for four months, the future of her golfing career in doubt, Paula Creamer found relief by turning on her DVD player.
She wasn’t interested in watching a movie or a concert. Instead, she carefully studied Angel Cabrera … Read more »»».

Verlander & Bailey in, Heyward out, Beltre a maybe: Injuries, new rule revamp All-Star rosters

All-Star shuffle: Injuries, new rule revamp roster
ANAHEIM, Calif. – Justin Verlander and Andrew Bailey are in. Jason Heyward is out. Adrian Beltre is a maybe.
And in the land of the famous In-N-Out burger, Jered Weaver is both.
The All-Star shuffle kept up Sunday, with injuries and a new rule taking their toll. So if …. Source  : Verlander & Bailey in, Heyward out, Beltre a maybe: Injuries, new rule revamp All-Star rosters.

Spanish press pays tribute to World Cup-winning football team

Spanish press pays tribute to World Cup winners

MADRID – Spain’s World Cup final victory against the Netherlands dominated the country’s press Monday, with newspapers paying tribute to the first Spanish team to claim football’s most prestigious trophy.
Under the front page headline “World champions,” El Pais described the 1-0 win in South Africa on Sunday as … Read more >>.

Malik dropped from first Test against Australia

KARACHI – Pakistan has dropped former captain Shoaib Malik from its

playing eleven for the first Test against Australia starting Tuesday at Lord’s after the experienced all-rounder skipped a few practice sessions to be with his wife Sania Mirza.
Sources in the Pakistan team management said the officials were irked by Malik’s non-serious approach in the … Original article on : Malik dropped from first Test against Australia.

Countering Afridi would be the key in Test series: Ponting

LONDON – Stopping Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi would be the key in the two match Test series starting at Lord’s today (Tuesday), Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes.

Ponting said Afridi plays an important role in the young Pakistani squad and it was important that the maverick all rounder is kept in control in order …. Source article  : Countering Afridi would be the key in Test series: Ponting.

Jats threaten to disrupt Delhi Commonwealth Games over jobs reservation demand

NEW DELHI – Scores of Jats have gathered under the banner of the Akhil Bharatiya Jat Aarakshana Samiti (ABJASS) – All India Jats Protection Forum gathered in the national capital on Monday to voice their demand for reservation in government jobs.

Later, elder functionaries of the forum issued a warning to the government that if their …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

One Billion Seconds to a heartbreak / Heartbreak in Amsterdam

AMSTERDAM – I didn’t expect the day to end this way. I knew there would be a winner and a loser, that the Netherlands had as much a chance of losing as winning the World Cup, but I wasn’t ready for anything like this.

Preparations for the big day had started over the weekend. Amsterdam …. Read the original article  : One Billion Seconds to a heartbreak / Heartbreak in Amsterdam.

Dad Ronaldo now honing his feeding and nappy-changing skills!

LONDON – Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has been honing his fathering skills by feeding and changing his newborn baby’s nappy.

Ronaldo, 25, who has not named the mother of the month-old baby, named after him, revealed that he is “very happy” to be a father.

“He’s been feeding him, changing his nappy, everything,” the Sun quoted a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Dad Ronaldo now honing his feeding and nappy-changing skills!.

Ex-star Cruyff blasts ‘vulgar’ Dutch

LONDON – Holland football legend Johan Cruyff has branded the current lot of Dutch football stars as ‘vulgar’ after their defeat in this year’s World Cup final in South Africa.

“It was lamentable, sad, they played dirty and deserved to be down to nine players very early. There were two tackles so ugly and dirty that …. Source  : Ex-star Cruyff blasts ‘vulgar’ Dutch.

Webb says WC final left him ‘physically and emotionally drained’

LONDON – Referee Howard Webb has admitted that the World Cup final left him ‘physically and emotionally drained’.

“It was the most difficult two hours of my career. I am physically and emotionally drained but FIFA have been very supportive – not just about the final but our performances throughout the whole tournament,” The Sun … Read more : Webb says WC final left him ‘physically and emotionally drained’.

Smith has shown he can handle the heat

LONDON – Debutant Australian leg-spinning all-rounder Steven Smith has shown that he can handle the heat of playing top flight cricket.

At least that is what his father, Peter, and a lot of others in Australian cricketing circles think.he first time Peter Smith thought his son, Steven, was destined to become more than just a handy …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Best time to defeat ‘less dangerous’ Australia: Afridi

LONDON – Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi is confident that his young squad can surprise Australia in the first Test here at the Lord’s starting today (Tuesday), as he believes that the Kangaroos are not that dangerous a team that they used to be a couple of years back.

Afridi told media persons here that if …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Clarke takes over Hussey’s No.4 slot in Oz Test batting line-up

LONDON – Vice captain Michael Clarke has been rewarded for becoming Australia’s most reliable middle-order batsman by being bumped up to No.4 in the Test lineup.

Regular No.5 Clarke will swap places with Mike Hussey, starting from the opening Test against Pakistan at Lord’s that begins on Tuesday, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.

Captain Ricky … Original article on : Clarke takes over Hussey’s No.4 slot in Oz Test batting line-up.

Australia has an edge over Pak in Test series

LONDON – A new-look Australia will step onto Lord’s for the first Test of the two-match series against Pakistan on Tuesday, and statistics suggest that the former will have an edge over the latter.

Australia has enjoyed an undefeated run against Pakistan stretching back to November 1995, Fox Sports reports.

The last time Pakistan enjoyed Test …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Shane Warne back ‘in love’ with ‘foul smelling’ British Airways

MELBOURNE – Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne has changed his tune about the service British Airways provides and this time he is showering them with praise instead of a blistering attack.

According to the Herald Sun, Warne, 40, had complained about the seating plan, the captain, the breath of a fellow passenger and the crew on …. Read the original article  : Shane Warne back ‘in love’ with ‘foul smelling’ British Airways.

Kerala to have a new boat race

KAYAMKULAM – Kerala’s famed boat race at Alappuzha is set to get competition this year. A Marxist legislator and boat race enthusiast has finalised plans to launch a boat race at Kayamkulam on Aug 28.

Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) legislator C.K. Sadasivan has been working hard to ensure that the Kayamkulam boat race is a … Read more >>>.

Hanley Ramirez Becomes Runner-Up

ANAHEIM (GaeaTimes.com)- At the Angel Stadium on Monday night Hanley Ramirez who plays for the Florida Marlins ended up holding the position of the runner-up. The player displayed some brilliant shots in the first two rounds of the game but failed to maintain the same performance in the final round that provided a … Read more >>.

Jimenez, Price and other All-Star young guns lead baseball’s arms race in Year of the Pitcher

All-Star young guns making it Year of the Pitcher

ANAHEIM, Calif. – Tim Hudson remembers when throwing fastballs registering in the upper 80s and low 90s was considered impressive. Now, in baseball’s Year of the Pitcher, that kind of speed is almost laughable.
Youngsters like Ubaldo Jimenez and Josh Johnson are routinely blasting the strike zone with …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Jimenez, Price and other All-Star young guns lead baseball’s arms race in Year of the Pitcher.

Up in the air: Groggy golfers arrive at St. Andrews, eager for shower, shave _ and sleep

Groggy golfers arrive at St. Andrews for British
ST. ANDREWS, Scotland – Standing behind the 18th green, a scraggly Zach Johnson asked around for dinner recommendations.
“I hear there’s a good pizza place up the street,” he said. “Anyone know where that is?”
But Johnson actually had other things on his mind.
Like a shower, a shave … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Up in the air: Groggy golfers arrive at St. Andrews, eager for shower, shave _ and sleep.

Statistics indicate FIFA WC 2010 was England’s worst ever

LONDON – England according to FIFA statistics has probably put up its worst performance in the finals.
According to FIFA, Fabio Capello’s flops are officially ranked as 13th of the 32 teams competing in South Africa.

The previous lowest finish – apart from the three they did not qualify for in 1974, 1978 and 1994 – … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Statistics indicate FIFA WC 2010 was England’s worst ever.

Winning the World Cup is a dream come true, says Fabregas

LONDON – Spanish football star and Gunners skipper Cesc Fabregas has said that he is still pinching himself to make sure that he was a part of the world cup football winning squad.

“I will look back on the last 48 hours of my life and pinch myself to make sure it wasn’t all one big …. Read the original article  : here.

FIFA WC final referee’s mum says he should be left alone

LONDON – The mother of English referee Howard Webb has angrily called on critics to leave her son alone.

Reacting to reports that Webb had received death threats from Dutch fans, his 64-year-old mother, Sylvia, said “The match must have been a nightmare for him. I was so deflated for Howard because he was so looking … Read more >>.

Boffins advice golfers to putt with a ‘Quiet Eye’

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the University of Exeter have a piece of timely advice for pros taking that crucial putt at the upcoming British Open – keep your eye on the ball.

Research at the University’s School of Sport and Health Sciences has shown that focusing your eye on exactly the right spot at …. Original article  : Boffins advice golfers to putt with a ‘Quiet Eye’.

9 persons injured, 3 by goring, in last running of the bulls at Spain’s San Fermin festival

9 injured, 3 by goring, in running of the bulls

PAMPLONA, Spain – Nine thrill-seeking runners were injured, three by goring, in a dangerous last running of the bulls at Spain’s San Fermin festival, officials said Wednesday. It was the most hurt in any day during this year’s festival.
Bulls tossed people on the slippery cobblestone streets …. Original article  : 9 persons injured, 3 by goring, in last running of the bulls at Spain’s San Fermin festival.

Selectors had no other choice but to make me captain: Afridi

LONDON – Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi believes that he was handed over the responsibility to lead the side, as the selectors had no other choice.

In an interview to a leading cricket website, Afridi said he was ready for the challenge from a long time, but the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) kept on ignoring him.

When asked … Original article on : Selectors had no other choice but to make me captain: Afridi.

Murugappa Gold Cup hockey gets richer

CHENNAI – Enhanced prize-money and introduction of the new green card rule (automatic two-minute suspension) will be the new features of the 86th All-India MCC-Murugappa Gold Cup hockey tournament starting here Thursday.

The field for the tournament, which concludes July 25, is much the same as last year when Army XI beat Bharat Petroleum in the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ramprakash granted ‘quickie’ divorce over wife Vandana’s ‘unreasonable behaviour’

LONDON – Former England cricketer Mark Ramprakash has been granted a divorce, which ends his marriage of 17 years to wife Vandana.

District Judge Martin Berry granted a decree in just 58 seconds, with the couple agreeing to share custody of their two daughters.

However, despite Ramprakash’s six-year affair with a Welsh single mother during their marriage, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ramprakash granted ‘quickie’ divorce over wife Vandana’s ‘unreasonable behaviour’.

Redknapp signs for Spurs, seeks Joe Cole to join club

LONDON – Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has said that he wants to sign Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole.

Redknapp, who signed a new contract at Spurs that keeps him at White Hart Lane until 2013, said: “I’m delighted to sign, now I want Joe here with me.”

The 63-year-old is prepared to leave no stone … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Redknapp signs for Spurs, seeks Joe Cole to join club.

Tour de France now a race between defending champion Alberto Contador and Andy Schleck

Tour now a 1-2 battle between Schleck and Contador

SAINT-JEAN-DE-MAURIENNE, France – Tour de France leader Andy Schleck is working to turn up the pressure on Alberto Contador as he and the defending champion lock into a two-way battle for supremacy.
With seven-time champion Lance Armstrong and two-time runner-up Cadel Evans of Australia out of contention, Schleck … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tour de France now a race between defending champion Alberto Contador and Andy Schleck.

Old-timers Day: Can another 50-something-year-old golfer contend for a British Open title?

Will another 50-something contend at British Open?

ST. ANDREWS, Scotland – First it was Greg Norman, proving for three rounds that age is merely a number. Then along came Tom Watson, just a couple of months shy of his 60th birthday, standing over an 8-foot putt that would have made him the oldest major champion in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Old-timers Day: Can another 50-something-year-old golfer contend for a British Open title?.

The Boss called for changes in 1988 that still have impact on US Olympic movement today

The Boss had great impact on the Olympic movement

Players and managers wearing pinstripes weren’t the only ones who would feel the heat from “The Boss” after a bad performance. Anyone wearing red, white and blue could find themselves under scrutiny, too.
George Steinbrenner’s death Tuesday at age 80 was felt deeply in Olympic circles, where Steinbrenner … Read more : The Boss called for changes in 1988 that still have impact on US Olympic movement today.

Rooney may be ‘rested’ during start of Premier League season

LONDON – Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has said that striker Wayne Rooney could miss the start of the season following his decision to give extended rest to World Cup players.

“Winning is part of what we have to do here, but the main object is to get everyone game time and come back …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rooney may be ‘rested’ during start of Premier League season.

Ashley Cole set for 30 million pound Real Madrid deal

LONDON – Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas has revealed that Chelsea defender Ashley Cole is certain for a 30 million pound move to join the Spanish giants.

“From what I am hearing the signs look good. I have only briefly spoken to people at the club, but I am confident that he can be a … Read more : Ashley Cole set for 30 million pound Real Madrid deal.

Male players seek female athletic trainers only when they are depressed

WASHINGTON – Male athletes prefer being treated by male athletic trainers for both gender-specific and non-gender specific injuries, but for depression they go for female assistance, revealed a new study.

A study from North Carolina State University examining male football players’ perceptions of female athletic trainers – and their comfort level in being treated by females [..] Read the original article: here.

George Steinbrenner Dies

TAMPA (GaeaTimes.com)- George Steinbrenner, “The Boss” of New York Yankees died yesterday morning at his hometown Tampa after suffering a major heart attack. He was the owner and managing partner of Major League’s Baseball New York Yankees and the former shipping magnate of Cleveland. The shocking news of his death brought in a … Read more >>>.

5 persons injured, 3 by goring, in last running of the bulls at Spain’s San Fermin festival

5 injured, 3 by goring, in running of the bulls

PAMPLONA, Spain – Officials say five runners have been injured, three by goring, in a dangerous last running of the bulls at Spain’s San Fermin festival.
Bulls fell and tossed people on the slippery cobblestone streets of Pamplona where a red bull at the tail of the … Original source on Gaea Times at : 5 persons injured, 3 by goring, in last running of the bulls at Spain’s San Fermin festival.

German football hit by ‘bunch of gays’ storm

BERLIN – Injured German skipper Michael Ballack’s agent has sparked a controversy by reportedly launching a bizarre attack on the national team by branding some unnamed players a “bunch of gays”.

Michael Becker, a close adviser to Ballack since 1999, made the remarks two months before the World Cup, according to an essay in German magazine …. Source  : German football hit by ‘bunch of gays’ storm.

I am trying to be the best father, says Tiger woods

LONDON – Disgraced golfer Tiger Woods has admitted that he’s trying to become a better person as well as the best father.
Woods broke with his normal routine and flied back to home from Ireland to spend time with his children, three-year-old daughter Sam Elexis and one-year-old son Charlie Axel.
And he has … Read more >>>.

WC final referees had no choice ‘but to manage the way we did’: Webb

LONDON – FIFA World Cup final’s referee, Howard Webb, has hit back at his critics, saying that he has no regrets over his handling of Sunday’s game between Spain and the Netherlands.

Webb was criticised in some quarters after he showed 14 yellow cards and dismissed Netherlands defender Johnny Heitinga in a match marred by frequent … Read : WC final referees had no choice ‘but to manage the way we did’: Webb.

Lance Armstrong Ready For 10th Stage

CHAMBERY, FRANCE (GaeaTimes.com)- Lance Armstrong who met with three crashes on Sunday is looking forward to the 10th stage of Tour De France which starts July 14. Lance Armstrong also recalls his days seven years back when he made a cut through the field to save himself from the crash.
The 10th stage of Tour De …. Original article  : Lance Armstrong Ready For 10th Stage.

Australia keen to end batting collapses on English soil, says Katich

LONDON – Australian opening batsman Simon Katich has said that his team wants to end the string of dramatic collapses on English soil following Tuesday’s capitulation in the first Test against Pakistan at Lord’s.
Katich admits that the swinging ball in heavy and overcast conditions is never easy for any batsman to counter, but …. Source  : Australia keen to end batting collapses on English soil, says Katich.

Queen’s baton reaches Gaya, to enter Patna today

NEW DELHI – The Queen’s Baton for the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games has reached Bihar. It was greeted by tens of thousands of people and heavy showers.

From the time the baton entered Bihar and till the time it reached Gaya, which was almost 200 kms, no street was left abandoned.

People from all walks of …. Original source  : Queen’s baton reaches Gaya, to enter Patna today.

NL All-Stars 3, AL All-Stars 1

NL All-Stars 3, AL All-Stars 1

NL

AL

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0 0 0 …. Source  : NL All-Stars 3, AL All-Stars 1.

Fifteen years after conquering Old Course, John Daly off to another rousing British Open start

Daly off to rousing start at British Open
ST. ANDREWS, Scotland – Fifteen years after his stunning win at the Old Course, John Daly is off to another rousing start at the British Open.

The mercurial American made the turn in the opening round Thursday with a 5-under 31, taking advantage of benign conditions that threatened to …. Original article  : Fifteen years after conquering Old Course, John Daly off to another rousing British Open start.

Beckham says England’s players, not coach behind World Cup Round of 16 exit

LONDON – England midfielder David Beckham has said that the players, not the coach, were to blame for the Three Lion’s disappointing Round of 16 exit from this year’s FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

England was eliminated from the tournament following their 4-1 defeat to … Read : Beckham says England’s players, not coach behind World Cup Round of 16 exit.

Management is not something I am passionate about, says Beckham

LONDON – England midfielder David Beckham has said that he would never manage the England squad.

Beckham was an unofficial member of manager Fabio Capello’s staff at the World Cup in South Africa, after injury ruled him out of the tournament.

His coaching role had led to suggestions that the LA Galaxy …. Read the original article  : here.

Beckham hails ‘life changing’ Afghanistan visit

LONDON – England midfielder David Beckham has said that visiting British troops fighting in Afghanistan was “one of the best things” he has done in his career.

Beckham had spent time with the troops in Helmand in May ahead of the FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

“That was one of the best things … Read more >>.

Gazza checks into rehab again

LONDON – Former England football star Paul Gascoigne, 43, has been driven to a five-bedroom house in Bournemouth owned by the Providence Project rehab group.

A local who saw him arrive on Monday evening said: “He looked really … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gazza checks into rehab again.

Ronaldo’s baby boy rushed to hospital

LONDON – Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo’s baby boy was rushed to hospital by his family in a mystery scare.

The baby boy was taken into emergency care at a private hospital in Portugal, reports the Sun.

A blonde woman pal tightly clutched the handle of his carrycot, which was draped in a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ronaldo’s baby boy rushed to hospital.

Messi urges Fabregas to join him in Barcelona

LONDON – Barcelona striker Lionel Messi has urged Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas to join him at the Nou Camp.

Messi is the latest Barcelona star to call on Fabregas to leave Arsenal, following similar pleas made by Andres Iniesta, Gerard Pique and Xavi earlier this week.

“I would be delighted …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Giggs calls on Man U’s World Cup players to ‘hit the ground running’

LONDON – Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs has told his teammates to get rid of their World Cup hangover or risk blowing the club’s title push.

Crucial players including Wayne Rooney, Michael Carrick, Patrice Evra, Nemanja Vidic and Park Ji-Sung have missed United’s pre-season tour of Canada and the US … Original article on : Giggs calls on Man U’s World Cup players to ‘hit the ground running’.

Ed Thomas Act Introduced

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- In honor of Aplington-Parkersburg football coach Ed Thomas, the U.S. Representative Bruce Braley introduced legislation in his name that will ensure the safety of families and communities from mentally ill people who have inherent potential to cause harm to people. The New bill named Ed Thomas Act will bring certain changes in …. Original source  : Ed Thomas Act Introduced.

Tour de France contenders Andy Schleck and Alberto Contador relax in Stage 10 as Paulinho wins

Tour rivals Schleck and Contador relax in Stage 10

GAP, France – Andy Schleck of Luxembourg maintained the leader’s yellow jersey at the Tour de France with little difficulty on a day when the main contenders were happy to sit back and let others do the suffering.
After several days of brutal racing and crashes in searing …. Read the original article  : Tour de France contenders Andy Schleck and Alberto Contador relax in Stage 10 as Paulinho wins.

FIFA chief Blatter gets an OBE!

JOHANNESBURG – The South African Government has awarded FIFA boss Sepp Blatter one of its top awards – The Order of Bellend, or so it seems.

But an official website announcing the news gave his full name as “Joseph Sepp Bellend Blatter”.

Pranksters are thought to have altered his Wikipedia entry, which was … Read more : FIFA chief Blatter gets an OBE!.

‘Tiger Woods’ behaviour at St Andrews very important for game’

FIFE – World No. 1 golfer Tiger Woods has been told by The Open bosses at St Andrews to behave himself during the tournament.

Woods has been slammed for turning the air blue, spitting and hurling his clubs around after wayward … Read more >>>.

‘Generous’ PCB returns fine amount for players”peace of mind’ on England tour

KARACHI – After removing the ban imposed on some of the senior players, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has now returned the amount that it had deducted from the fees of four players after they were fined for their poor performance during the winless tour … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Generous’ PCB returns fine amount for players’ ‘peace of mind’ on England tour.

Becks says his wardrobe is immaculate compared to Posh’s

LONDON – British footballer David Beckham has revealed that he likes to keep his clothes neat and tidy, unlike his wife Victoria.

“I’m very fussy about how my shirts are arranged,” the Sun quoted him as saying.

“Victoria’s is a mess with jumpers hanging out of the drawers and I rearrange it … Read more : Becks says his wardrobe is immaculate compared to Posh’s.

Becks would’ve been a Lego builder had he not been a footie star

LONDON – English footballer David Beckham has opened up about his secret passion for Lego.

Becks, 35, said he would have loved to be a professional Lego builder if he wasn’t a soccer star.

“This is going to make me sound really weird – when I … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Becks would’ve been a Lego builder had he not been a footie star.

Watson’s spell inspired by Oz legend Miller’s ‘honours board’ spot at Lord’s

LONDON – Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has said that he was inspired by the feat of Aussie legend Keith Miller before collecting his maiden five-wicket Test haul in the opening match against Pakistan at Lord’s.

Watson, who proved to be the surprise danger man with … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Watson’s spell inspired by Oz legend Miller’s ‘honours board’ spot at Lord’s.

Arthur Ashe Courage Award For Ed Thomas Family

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- The Arthur Ashe Courage Award for the year 2010 has a winner and it is the family of football coach Ed Thomas. During the ESPYs that was organized yesterday night at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles, the wife and children of Ed Thomas, the football coach who had been killed … Read more »»».

ESPYS Witness Grandeur

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA (GaeaTimes.com)- ESPYs 2010, the annual awards event created and broadcast by American cable television network ESPN to celebrate their legacy as a sports channel where the athletics and the players are given awards for their performances, was held last night at the Nokia Center in Los Angeles, California. The star studded … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ESPYS Witness Grandeur.

1998 champ Nguyen out at World Series of Poker main event; Chan only former winner left

1998 champ Nguyen out at World Series of Poker

LAS VEGAS – The World Series of Poker main event has just one former champion competing for an $8.94 million top prize after 1998 champion Scotty Nguyen was eliminated from the tournament late Wednesday.
Nguyen gambled his last 310,000 chips on one of the last hands of the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 1998 champ Nguyen out at World Series of Poker main event; Chan only former winner left.

England ’stupid’ to rest Ashes ’secret weapon’ Steven Finn: Warner

LONDON – Australian batsman David Warner has branded England ’stupid’ for keeping their secret weapon for the Ashes, fast bowler Steven Finn, under wraps during the five-match ODI series between the two sides.

Finn is completing the final stages of a six-week strength and conditioning programme instead of playing for his county Middlesex, but … Read more >>.

Lalit Modi skips disciplinary committee meet

MUMBAI – Suspended Indian Premier League (IPL) commissioner Lalit Modi failed to appear before the BCCI’s Disciplinary Committee for the hearing on Friday.

He will be represented by his lawyers.

A team of four legal representatives has arrived before the committee that comprises of Chirayu Amin, Arun Jaitley and Jyotiraditya Scindia.

On Thursday, the Bombay High Court has …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Blonde birdies’ can’t keep their eyes off Tiger Woods at St Andrews!

LONDON – Professional golfer Tiger Woods’ presence in Scotland for The Open title at St Andrews has garnered a lot of attention, especially from five stunning blonde models with tiger-print T-shirts on.

Woods, 34, however appeared to be immune to the charms put on by the girls, who had been hired by a bookies … Read more >>.

British Open leader McIlroy misses Major record by a stroke

FIFE – Irish golfer Rory McIlroy has missed the golden opportunity of being the first man to post a ten-under-par 62 in a Major championship.

McIlroy has a two-stroke lead going into the second round of the British Open after tying a major championship record of nine-under-par 63 on day one.

The 21-year-old also became …. Original article  : British Open leader McIlroy misses Major record by a stroke.

Cavendish wins 11th stage of Tour after teammate head-butts rival; Schleck keeps overall lead

Renshaw booted for helping Cavendish win Stage 11

BOURG-LES-VALENCE, France – Mark Cavendish provided a feel-good story when he broke down in tears after winning the 5th stage of the Tour de France a week ago.
Cavendish, who also won Stage 6, had his third stage win of this year’s Tour marred by the actions of a … Original article on : Cavendish wins 11th stage of Tour after teammate head-butts rival; Schleck keeps overall lead.

South African Oosthuizen surges to lead of British Open on a rainy morning at St. Andrews

Oosthuizen surges to lead of British Open
ST. ANDREWS, Scotland – South Africa’s on quite a roll.

Coming off the rousing success of being the first African nation to host soccer’s World Cup, the country made another splash in the British Open when Louis Oosthuizen surged to the lead early in the second round Friday.
The 27-year-old from … Original article on : South African Oosthuizen surges to lead of British Open on a rainy morning at St. Andrews.

Caster Semenya wins comeback race in Finland

LAPPEENRANTA – South African 800 metres world champion Caster Semenya has won her first race since being cleared to return to competition after underdoing gender tests.

Semenya won the 800 meters in a modest time of two minutes, 04.22 seconds on Thursday at the Lappeenranta Games in Finland.

It may have been nearly nine … Read more : Caster Semenya wins comeback race in Finland.

French team was fully united over World Cup ’strike’, says unrepentant Anelka

PARIS – French striker Nicolas Anelka has refused to apologize for his part in the players’ revolt that ripped apart the national team’s World Cup campaign in South Africa.

Anelka was sent home from the tournament in disgrace following a foul-mouthed dressing-room bust-up with coach Raymond Domenech, after which the squad refused to train.

The [..] Read the original article: here.

Iroquois lacrosse team stuck in NY, seeks permission to go to UK for Game 2 of tournament

Iroquois lacrosse team stuck in NY ahead of Game 2

NEW YORK – An American Indian lacrosse team whose Iroquois (EER’-uh-koy)-issued passports lack required security features is awaiting word on whether it will be granted permission to travel to England in time to play its second scheduled world championship game.
The Iroquois Nationals lacrosse team is stuck … Original article on : Iroquois lacrosse team stuck in NY, seeks permission to go to UK for Game 2 of tournament.

US soccer star Landon Donovan denies he fathered Brit ‘love child’

LOS ANGELES – U.S. striker Landon Donovan has said that he is not the father of a love child with a British woman.

“I will not be a dad any time soon, which is good news for me,” The New York Post quoted Donovan, as saying.

The paternity scandal arose a day after U.S were …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US soccer star Landon Donovan denies he fathered Brit ‘love child’.

52k pound bid on eBay for World Cup final Jabulani ball

LONDON – The Adidas Jabulani ball used in the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and the Netherlands has sparked a bidding frenzy on eBay.

The bidding price has soared from 99 pounds to 52,100 pounds, with the auction ending at 5pm on Friday.

All proceeds from the auction will go to former South African President Nelson … Read more »».

Roarin’ Rory: McIlroy ties major record with opening 63 on calm day at St. Andrews

Young Irishman takes Open lead into second round
ST. ANDREWS, Scotland – Trying to catch Rory McIlroy and his record-tying 63 was difficult enough in the British Open. It didn’t appear to be much easier Friday morning for the early starters.
In a cruel tease, they arrived at the Old Course to a …. Original article  : Roarin’ Rory: McIlroy ties major record with opening 63 on calm day at St. Andrews.

Roses and carnations from Himachal for Games

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh will spread its fragrance during the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi as the state has got bulk orders to supply flowers, chiefly roses, carnations and marigolds, during the event.

“The organisers have placed orders worth Rs.30 crore with the state for supplying flowers during the Games. The order would further increase as …. Source article  : Roses and carnations from Himachal for Games.

Angels 8, Mariners 3

Angels 8, Mariners 3

Seattle

Los Angeles

ab r h bi

ab r h bi

ISuzuki rf
4 0 1 3

EAyar ss
5 2 3 3

Figgins 2b …. Source article  : Angels 8, Mariners 3.

Erick Aybar, Bobby Abreu lead Angels’ 16-hit attack in 8-3 win over Seattle

Aybar, Abreu lead Angels’ 16-hit rout of Seattle

ANAHEIM, Calif. – Erick Aybar and Bobby Abreu drove in three runs apiece, Joel Pineiro won his seventh straight decision, and the Los Angeles Angels returned from hosting the All-Star game with an 8-3 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Thursday night.
Howie Kendrick had a run-scoring double for …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Erick Aybar, Bobby Abreu lead Angels’ 16-hit attack in 8-3 win over Seattle.

Giants 2, Mets 0

Giants 2, Mets 0

New York

San Francisco

ab r h bi

ab r h bi

Pagan rf
4 0 0 0

Rownd cf
4 1 2 0

Cora 2b … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Giants 2, Mets 0.

Lincecum throws fourth career shutout to lead Giants to 2-0 victory over Mets

Lincecum, Giants shut down Mets 2-0
SAN FRANCISCO – Tim Lincecum pitched a six-hitter for his fourth career shutout and Pablo Sandoval hit an RBI double to help the San Francisco Giants open the second half of the season with a 2-0 victory over the New York Mets on Thursday night.

Lincecum (10-4) is coming off his … Original article on : Lincecum throws fourth career shutout to lead Giants to 2-0 victory over Mets.

Twins place star 1B Justin Morneau on disabled list with concussion, recall Manship

Morneau put on disabled list with concussion

MINNEAPOLIS – Hoping to use the All-Star break as a slump-busting springboard, the Minnesota Twins must start the second half without Justin Morneau.
The big-swinging first baseman missed his fourth straight game on Thursday with a concussion and was placed on the 15-day disabled list after the 8-7 loss to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Twins place star 1B Justin Morneau on disabled list with concussion, recall Manship.

Beckham’s HR, Danks’ persistence pace White Sox to 9th straight win, 8-7 over Twins

White Sox take 1st game against Twins
MINNEAPOLIS – Ozzie Guillen has made no secret of his admiration for the Minnesota Twins over the years.

The outspoken Chicago White Sox manager loves how the Twins have done all the little things right, relying on pitching, defense and fundamentals to wear opponents down en route to five division … Read more >>.

Cubs’ offense has big night in 12-6 victory over Phillies

Ramirez, Lee lead Cubs to 12-6 win over Phillies

CHICAGO – Aramis Ramirez hit a pair of two-run doubles, and Derrek Lee and Geovany Soto each had two-run homers to lead the Chicago Cubs to a 12-6 win over the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday night.
Alfonso Soriano also hit a solo homer for the Cubs, who scored [..] Read the original article: here.

Cubs 12, Phillies 6

Cubs 12, Phillies 6

Philadelphia

Chicago

ab r h bi

ab r h bi

Rollins ss
3 0 0 0

Theriot 2b
5 1 2 0

JuCastr ph …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cubs 12, Phillies 6.

Mourinho determined to strengthen Real with young Germans

MADRID – Jose Mourinho is determined to build a powerful young team at Real Madrid – and is looking towards Germany for help.

The Portuguese coach has been given the difficult task of ending the hegemony of Barcelona, who have won La Liga four times in the past six years.
On Friday the most expensive coach …. Source article  : Mourinho determined to strengthen Real with young Germans.

Spanish golf ace Sergio threatens to quit

LONDON – A distraught Spanish golf ace Sergio Garcia has threatened to quit the sport at 30 after struggling to deal with his latest slump in form.

According to The Sun, Garcia shot 71 yesterday to improve his Open tally to two under at 142.

He has sunk to 44th in world rankings, and could not …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Spanish golf ace Sergio threatens to quit.

England manager’s job is “a poisoned chalice”, says Fergie

LONDON – The England manager’s job is “a poisoned chalice”, says Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, which is why he has turned it down twice.

“I’ve been asked to manage the England team on a couple of occasions but, of course, it’s out of the question. It’s a poisoned chalice anyway – it’s a terrible … Original source on Gaea Times at : England manager’s job is “a poisoned chalice”, says Fergie.

Oz players opposed to split innings in ODIs

SYDNEY – An internal poll of national-level and state players in Australia reveals that they have emphatically rejected the idea of splitting innings in the one-day international format, a plan put forward by Cricket Australia and to be introduced domestically in the Ford Ranger Cup next summer.

The majority of respondents to an online Herald … Read more >>.

Becks ready to bare all for Armani-type ads

LONDON – British footballer David Beckham has revealed that he hasn’t ruled out doing another Armani-type ad in the future.

Becks, 35, who had signed a multi-million deal with Armani in 2008 to advertise their underwear, was replaced by footie ace Cristiano Ronaldo the following year.

But he says he has no qualms about peeling off for … Read more »»».

Katich’s simple formula for success: Protect your castle at all costs

LONDON – Australian left-hand opener Simon Katich has a simple formula for success-Protect your castle at all costs.

Since winning back his Australian Test batting spot in 2008 as a makeshift opener, Katich has faced more than 5400 deliveries, many of them from pace bowlers, and his stumps have only been rattled twice in that time.

The …. Source  : Katich’s simple formula for success: Protect your castle at all costs.

Ponting predicts bright cricket future for Smith

LONDON – Australian captain Ricky Ponting has predicted a bright future for upcoming leg spinning all-rounder Steve Smith after the latter put up a creditable performance in his debut Test here against Pakistan.

Smith scored one and 12 and snared three wickets for 51 runs in the Test, which Pakistan lost by 150 runs … Read : Ponting predicts bright cricket future for Smith.

Pacquiao-Mayweather fight staggered again as Arum says deadline passes with no deal

Pacquiao-Mayweather deadline passes without deal

Manny Pacquiao will start looking for another opponent for his next bout now that promoter Bob Arum’s deadline for a deal with Floyd Mayweather Jr. has passed.
Arum said early Saturday morning that Mayweather hadn’t responded to their contract proposal. Pacquiao will open discussions with Antonio Margarito and Miguel Cotto for a …. Read the original article  : Pacquiao-Mayweather fight staggered again as Arum says deadline passes with no deal.

Defending Tour de France champion Alberto Contador lays down marker to leader Andy Schleck

Contador marks turf in Tour battle with Schleck

MENDE, France – Andy Schleck has been bragging about dethroning defending champion Alberto Contador at the Tour de France.
Contador did his talking on the course with a punishing ride on Friday’s 12th stage.
The two-time Tour champion from Spain dropped Schleck on a short and steep climb at the … Read more >>>.

Will wind keep howling? That’s the big question heading to weekend at the British Open

30 golfers back to finish 2nd round at St. Andrews
ST. ANDREWS, Scotland – British Amateur champion Jin Jeong and the other 29 players who returned to St. Andrews on Saturday to finish the second round found the Old Course more to their liking.
Facing only a cool breeze, Jeong birdied the 18th … Original source on Gaea Times at : Will wind keep howling? That’s the big question heading to weekend at the British Open.

Chelsea offers 50 m pounds for Liverpool’s Torres

LONDON – Chelsea has made a club record 50-million-pound bid for Liverpool’s Spanish striker Fernando Torres.iverpool had earlier turned down a 40-million-pound offer for 26-year-old Torres.

According to The Sun, Anfield club bosses made it clear they would not welcome any further approaches for their World Cup-winning star.

But that will not deter Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich … Read more : Chelsea offers 50 m pounds for Liverpool’s Torres.

Yousuf ready to come out of retirement following PCB’s ‘SOS’ call

KARACHI – Former Pakistan captain Mohammed Yousuf has reportedly agreed to come out of retirement and join the team in England ahead of the second Test against Australia at Headingly starting July 21.

According to sources, following Pakistan’s 150-run loss in the Lord’s Test and captain Shahid Afridi’s unexpected decision to quit Test captaincy after … Original article on : Yousuf ready to come out of retirement following PCB’s ‘SOS’ call.

Afridi’s abrupt Test retirement would not affect his ODI, T20 captaincy

KARACHI – Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi’s abrupt decision to quit Test captaincy would not affect his one-day and T-20 leadership, sources in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have said.

“Afridi remains as Pakistan Cricket Board’s top choice to lead the national team in ODIs and Twenty20 Internationals at least till the World Cup next year,” The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tiger Wood’s ‘mistress’ to appear on ‘The Celebrity Apprentice’

WASHINGTON – Tiger Wood’s alleged mistress Rachel Uchitel has been offered to work in the fourth season of ‘The Celebrity Apprentice.’
Donald Trump, an old friend of Woods, said that he personally called Uchitel three weeks ago and offered her a spot on the show, telling her she’d be ‘awesome,’ reports TMZ.com
We called Uchitel …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Squabble with PCB boss Butt behind Afridi’s retirement from tests

LAHORE – Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi’s sudden announcement of retirement from Test cricket took all by surprise, and insiders say that the all rounder’s abrupt decision came after he had a heated debate with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ijaz Butt.

According to sources, a ‘group’ in the team was conspiring to replace … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Squabble with PCB boss Butt behind Afridi’s retirement from tests.

Adrian Gonzalez hits 2-run homer in Padres’ 12-1 win over Diamondbacks

Gonzalez, Padres rout Diamondbacks 12-1
SAN DIEGO – All-Star slugger Adrian Gonzalez hit a two-run homer to key a five-run outburst and Jon Garland threw six strong innings, leading the San Diego Padres to a 12-1 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday night.

Gonzalez put the NL West leaders ahead 2-1 in the fourth when he …. Source  : Adrian Gonzalez hits 2-run homer in Padres’ 12-1 win over Diamondbacks.

Padres 12, Diamondbacks 1

Padres 12, Diamondbacks 1

Arizona

San Diego

ab r h bi

ab r h bi

CYoung cf
3 0 0 0

HrstnJr ss-2b
4 1 1 2

KJhnsn 2b … Original source on Gaea Times at : Padres 12, Diamondbacks 1.

Barry Zito fans 10 and allows 2 hits in 8 innings as Giants blank slumping Mets again, 1-0

Zito strikes out 10, Giants beat slumping Mets 1-0

SAN FRANCISCO – Barry Zito struck out 10 in eight dominant innings of two-hit ball and the San Francisco Giants beat New York 1-0 Friday night, shutting out the slumping Mets for the second consecutive game.
All-Star closer Brian Wilson completed the three-hitter for San Francisco, which has …. Read the original article  : Barry Zito fans 10 and allows 2 hits in 8 innings as Giants blank slumping Mets again, 1-0.

Giants 1, Mets 0

Giants 1, Mets 0

New York

San Francisco

ab r h bi

ab r h bi

RTejad ss
3 0 1 0

Torres rf-lf
4 0 0 0

Carter ph … Read more »».

Angels 3, Mariners 2

Angels 3, Mariners 2

Seattle

Los Angeles

ab r h bi

ab r h bi

ISuzuki rf
4 0 0 0

EAyar ss
3 1 1 0

Figgins 2b …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Angels 3, Mariners 2.

Sri Lanka make confident start against India (Lunch Report)

GALLE – Sri Lanka started on a confident note as they made 91 for one in their first innings at lunch against India on the first day of the first cricket Test at the Galle International Stadium here Sunday.
Opener Tharanga Pranavitana was batting on 35 and captain Kumar Sangakkara on 25 at the … Read more : Sri Lanka make confident start against India (Lunch Report).

ICC worried over lack of international cricket in Pakistan

LONDON – The International Cricket Council (ICC) is concerned that the lack of international cricket in Pakistan could severely dent the future of the game in the troubled country.

ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat said that the apex cricketing body is worried over lack of international cricket in Pakistan, adding that the it might send a … Read : ICC worried over lack of international cricket in Pakistan.

Rameez backs young guns Ali, Amin’s inclusion in Test squad

LONDON – Former Pakistan skipper Rameez Raja has backed the inclusion of young batsmen Azhar Ali and Uman Amin in the national squad.

Both Ali and Amin made their debut against in first test against Australia at Lord’s but failed to make a mark, however, Rameez believes that they have the potential to play for … Read more »».

Arsenal will not allow skipper Fabregas to go: Wenger

LONDON – Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has insisted that Cesc Fabregas Barcelona saga is over, and the Gunners will not allow their captain to go.

Arsenal fans made their feelings clear with an X-rated banner message to the Spanish club during Saturday’s match at Barnet.

Wenger said: “The discussion is stopped. We never … Original source on Gaea Times at : Arsenal will not allow skipper Fabregas to go: Wenger.

Liverpool offers Joe Cole massive 4.7 million pounds deal

LONDON – Liverpool has offered Joe Cole a massive 4.7 million pounds-a-year deal outbidding other rivals to make the midfielder new coach Roy Hodgson’s first major signing.

Hodgson met Cole and his representatives in an effort to thrash out the 90,000 pounds-a-week contract for the next three years.

Cole could also expect a significant signing-on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Father Pietersen not to captain England again

LONDON – England batsman Kevin Pietersen has said that he will never again captain the team again as he is a father now.

Pietersen has a two-month-old son called Dylan with his wife, Liberty X singer Jessica Taylor, 30.

he Daily Star quoted Pietersen as saying: “Dylan’s totally changed my life. He made me realise I … Original source on Gaea Times at : Father Pietersen not to captain England again.

Ronaldo’s ‘one-night stand with US waitress resulted in baby’

LONDON – The mother of Cristiano Ronaldo’s baby boy is a penniless American waitress, who had a one-night stand with the footballer, it has emerged.

According to a friend, last summer, on a trip to Los Angeles, Ronaldo strutted into a restaurant and spotted a woman.

“Ronni looked the girl in the eye and said extremely directly: … Original article on : Ronaldo’s ‘one-night stand with US waitress resulted in baby’.

Pak sending six-member team for Tour de Delhi cycling competition

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Cycling Federation (PCF) would be sending a six-member team for the Tour de Delhi cycling competition starting August 29.

PCF secretary Idris Haider Khwaja said that a six-member Pakistani cycling team along with three officials would participate in the event.

The Pakistani cycling contingent would reach New Delhi on August 27, The Daily …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Salman Khurshid affirms major Company Law violations in IPL

CHENNAI – Minister of State for Corporate Affairs Salman Khurshid has affirmed to major Company Law violations in the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket tournament.

Confirming the violations at an event organised by the Southern India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) in Tamil Nadu’s Chennai city on Saturday, Khurshid said that his ministry …. Source article  : Salman Khurshid affirms major Company Law violations in IPL.

Capello Index was published without my knowledge, says Capello

LONDON – England coach Fabio Capello said that the Capello Index was published without his knowledge.

Capello has had the Capello Index removed from the Internet after insisting he had not seen or approved of the controversial rankings, the Daily Express reports.

An FA statement said: “The ratings were not seen or approved by Mr Capello and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Capello Index was published without my knowledge, says Capello.

Lunch scoreboard: India vs Sri Lanka, Day I, First Test

GALLE – The following is the scoreboard at lunch on the first day of the first cricket Test between India and Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium here Sunday.
Sri Lanka:
Tharanga Paranavitana not out 35
Tillekaratne Dilshan c Dhoni b Mithun 25
Kumar Sangakkara not out 25
Extras (lb 4, nb …. Original source  : Lunch scoreboard: India vs Sri Lanka, Day I, First Test.

1 busts until World Series of Poker ends summer card marathon and determines Nov. final table

1 bust to World Series of Poker final table

LAS VEGAS – Just one elimination stood between a group of card players and the World Series of Poker main event final table Saturday night after about nine chaotic hours of play, with each card and wager twisting endgame fortunes for the top finishers in the marathon …. Source article  : 1 busts until World Series of Poker ends summer card marathon and determines Nov. final table.

Nate Montana Arrested At Party

SOUTHBEND, INDIANA (GaeaTimes.com)- Nate Montana, the son of Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana was arrested last Friday night at a party for underage drinking. The Police arrested a total of 44 people after they responded to a call about a fight near roadway in Southbend, Indiana and discovered the party. St. Joseph …. Read the original article  : Nate Montana Arrested At Party.

Sri Lanka 91/1 against India at lunch

GALLE – Sri Lanka were 91 for one in their first innings at lunch on the first day of their first cricket Test against India at the Galle International Stadium here Sunday.

Opening batsman Tharanga Pranavitana was batting on 35 and skipper Kumar Sangakkara at 25. Tillekaratne Dilshan was picked up by debutant pacer Abhimanyu Mithun … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sri Lanka 91/1 against India at lunch.

Wenger wins tussle over Fabregas with Barcelona

LONDON – Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger feels that he has finally won the battle with Barcelona over his captain Cesc Fabregas.
Wenger has consistently refused to entertain Barcelona’s very public approach for the midfielder, even as Fabregas had expressed his desire to return to his childhood club.
Barcelona made their aggressive move …. Read the original article  : here.

No replacement for Afridi as of now: Pak team manager

LONDON – Pakistan team manager Yawar Saeed has said that the team management, including the newly appointed captain Salman Butt, has decided not to seek any replacement for Shahid Afridi, who announced his retirement from Test cricket following the 150-run defeat against Australia at Lord’s.

Afridi, who had announced that the second Test at Headingly, would …. Original source  : No replacement for Afridi as of now: Pak team manager.

Ex-Pak greats blasts Afridi for hasty retirement

ISLAMABAD – Former Pakistan cricketers have criticised Shahid Afridi for leaving the team in the lurch by announcing his retirement in middle of an important foreign tour.

Pakistan’s World Cup winning captain Imran Khan lashed out at Afridi, saying his abrupt retirement has only enhanced problems for Pakistan cricket.

“I think Afridi has further compounded the problems …. Original article  : Ex-Pak greats blasts Afridi for hasty retirement.

Football match to create awareness about police recruitment drive in West Bengal

WEST MIDNAPORE – The West Bengal police has announced a football match to be played on Monday in Lalgarh District as part of their welfare programme for the Maoist-affected areas and to create awareness among the youth for recruitment in police services.

West Midnapore Superintendent of Police Manoj Verma on Saturday said the aim of the …. Original source  : Football match to create awareness about police recruitment drive in West Bengal.

The Tour de France enters the Pyrenees for 4 punishing days that will shake up the race

The mountains loom for Tour de France cyclists

REVEL, France – The Tour de France was to begin one of the most punishing sequences of stages in its recent history Sunday as the riders entered the Pyrenees for four days that include two ascents of the Col du Tourmalet.
Andy Schleck of Luxembourg held the yellow jersey … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : The Tour de France enters the Pyrenees for 4 punishing days that will shake up the race.

Berbatov can help bring Premier League title back to Man U: Ferguson

LONDON – Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes that his under fire striker Dimitar Berbatov can help to bring the Premier League title back to Old Trafford.

Ferguson saw the Bulgarian striker score once and set up another goal to help his side start their pre-season tour with victory over Celtic.

United supporters blamed … Read more >>>.

US footie star Donovan has no plans to reconcile with ex-wife

NEW YORK – American football star Landon Donovan has said that he has plans to reconcile with estranged wife Bianca Kajlich, though he brought her to the ESPY Awards in Los Angeles recently.

According to the Sun, the American soccer star partied like a freewheeling bachelor last weekend at Aria Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. … Read more : US footie star Donovan has no plans to reconcile with ex-wife.

Dean Jones’ Father of the Year award revoked after confessing affair

MELBOURNE – Former Australian cricketer Dean Jones has been stripped of the Victorian Father of the Year award after he admitted bearing an illegitimate child with an air hostess.

Jones confessed having a son with airhostess Kerri-Anne Hamilton.

The decision came after the 49-year-old legend cricket revealed he had a nine year affair with Sydney flight …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

PCB sanctions meagre Rs 6.4 million for security costs in 2010-2011 budget

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sanctioned a meagre 6.4 million rupees for security costs out of its 2.6 billion rupees budget for 2010-2011, despite continuous violence in the country keeping foreign teams away.

The budget has been termed ’shocking’ as security remains one of the main reasons why foreign teams refuse … Original source on Gaea Times at : PCB sanctions meagre Rs 6.4 million for security costs in 2010-2011 budget.

Girlfriend cuts short trip to reunite with Ronaldo

NEW YORK – Cristiano Ronaldo’s girfriend Irina Shayk will reunite with her footballer beau sooner than it was expected.

The Russian model and spokeswoman for Beach Bunny swimwear shortened her trip to Miami for Fashion Week Swim and went to Europe to see Ronaldo between bookings.

New York-based Shayk had played dumb about her romance to … Read more »»».

Lionel Messi to start his own clothing range

LONDON – Footballer Lionel Messi is all set to take over the fashion world, as he is planning to launch his own clothing range.

And the Barcelona and Argentina hero is counting on some famous pals to help him make it a success. is idea is to sign a sport, movie, or music star as …. Read the original article  : here.

Ancelotti hopeful about Chelsea defending Premier League title without Cole, Torres

LONDON – Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that Chelsea will keep their stranglehold on the UK Premier League without the services of strikers Joe Cole or Fernando Torres.

The Premier League champions were reportedly prepared to pay as much as 50 million dollars to land Torres, who was injured in the World Cup final victory … Original article on : Ancelotti hopeful about Chelsea defending Premier League title without Cole, Torres.

Pak team may replace Kaneria with Ajmal for Headingley Test against Australia

LONDON – Pakistan may drop leg-spinner Danish Keneria and bring in off-spinner Saeed Ajmal for the second and final Test against Australia, starting at Headingley from Wednesday.

According to a Pakistan team official, the management feels that the Australians have got many left-handed batsmen, and Ajmal along with the fast bowlers would form the best possible … Read more : Pak team may replace Kaneria with Ajmal for Headingley Test against Australia.

Pakistan team will bounce back in Headingley Test: Waqar

LONDON – Pakistan coach Waqar Younis is confident that his team will bounce in the second Test match against Australia, starting at Headingley from Wednesday.

Waqar said that a couple of solid innings at Lord’s could have changed the course of the series.

“There is a very thin line between win and loss and I …. Source article  : Pakistan team will bounce back in Headingley Test: Waqar.

North wants to chip in with bat before ball

LEEDS – He may have picked up six wickets in the just completed Lords Test against Pakistan, but Australian middle order batsman Marcus North still sees himself as a batting all-rounder almost 18 months after making his debut, and wants that aspect of his cricket to count.

North’s 16-Test career can legitimately be characterised as having …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Butt did not expect Afridi to retire, but pleads for patience

LEEDS – Pakistan’s new cricket captain Salman Butt has said that he did not expect all-rounder to quit the job, and now that he has taken over, he has appealed to both fans and the PCB to show patience to enable the team to realize its full potential.

The in-form 25-year-old told Cricinfo: “I was partially … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Butt did not expect Afridi to retire, but pleads for patience.

Marcus North learning to cope with scrutiny

LONDON – Australian middle order batsman and part time off spinner Marcus North says he is learning to cope with the constant scrutiny of his position in the Australian squad.

Following a lean home summer, he quietened the campaign to unseat him by scoring an unbeaten 112 and 90 in the two-match series in New Zealand.

“That’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Golfer Greg Norman’s sister calls his ex-wife Evert ‘dominating’

CANBERRA – After almost a year of divorce between tennis star Chris Evert and golfer Greg Norman, the latter’s sister, Janis, has said she knew from the day they tied the knot that the couple were doomed to split one day.

“She became very dominating and controlling, and, it became very apparent she was treating my …. Original source  : Golfer Greg Norman’s sister calls his ex-wife Evert ‘dominating’.

North, Watson Lords performance shows depth of Oz Test attack: Ponting

LONDON – Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting is of the view that the bowling performance of all-rounders Marcus North and Shane Watson in the recently concluded Lords Test against Pakistan, highlights the increasing versatility of the squad’s bowling attack in the run-up to this year’s Ashes series.

Watson claimed five wickets in the first … Original source on Gaea Times at : North, Watson Lords performance shows depth of Oz Test attack: Ponting.

PCB chief hints at return of Yousuf, Younus for England Test series

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ijaz Butt has indicated that former captains Muhammad Yousuf and Younus Khan may return to the national team for the Test series against England next month.

“The issue of both these players was discussed at our meeting in London on last Friday where it was felt that since there …. Source  : PCB chief hints at return of Yousuf, Younus for England Test series.

Is golf is giving up on Tiger Woods?

LONDON – Tiger Woods is in grave danger of becoming just another golfer, and he realizes it.

After yet another false start at the British Open, Woods admitted: “That has been the story of my week. As soon as I got something going, I would somehow find a way to stop the momentum.”

“I knew …. Read the original article  : here.

Tiger Woods drops F-bombs on live TV

WASHINGTON – Controversial golf champion, Tiger Woods has grabbed the world’s attention yet again by using a series of F-bombs on live television during the British Open Golf Championship in Scotland this weekend.

According to The Sun, the 34-year-old golfer unleashed a string of audible abuse on Saturday at the British Open after missing … Read more >>.

Ethnic Indian wins Malaysian golf tournament

KUALA LUMPUR – An ethnic Indian has won Malaysia’s golf tournament Negri Sembilan Masters Invitational, becoming the first Malaysian to win it.

Siva, 31, led from day one and was consistent throughout the four rounds at the Seremban International Golf Club (SIGC) Sunday, The Star newspaper said.
He shot a three-under 69 yesterday, despite rain …. Source  : Ethnic Indian wins Malaysian golf tournament.

CrossFit Brings The Fittest To Carson

CARSON (GaeaTimes.com)- If you are fit then the Home Depot Center in Carson is your destination. At least that is what the organizers of CrossFit have to say. CrossFit is an annual athletic gaming event which is held in California every year and is the meeting place of the fittest humans on the planet …. Original article  : CrossFit Brings The Fittest To Carson.

Ex-Liverpool boss blames Rooney for England’s WC loss

LONDON – Ex-Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier has blamed Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney for England’s shocking World Cup performance.

Fabio Capello’s side crashed out of the tournament with a 4-1 drubbing at the hands of Germany in the second round.

“Probably the key to understanding why England didn’t perform at the World Cup is that the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ex-Liverpool boss blames Rooney for England’s WC loss.

Youngsters can help Man U reclaim lost Premier League title: Giggs

LONDON – Manchester United can reclaim the Premier League title on the performance of their younger lot of players, feels veteran Ryan Giggs.

United fielded eight players during their 3-1 victory over Celtic in Toronto on Friday who were 21 or under.

They included new signing Chris Smalling, 19, and goal scorers Tom Cleverley, 20, and Danny … Original article on : Youngsters can help Man U reclaim lost Premier League title: Giggs.

Ishant strikes thrice as Sri Lanka make 361/6 (Lunch Report)

GALLE – Fast bowler Ishant Sharma found his form claiming three wickets as Sri Lanka made 361 for six in their first innings against India at lunch on the third day of the first cricket Test here Tuesday.

Ishant struck with his second ball of the day dismissing opener Tharanga Paranavitana (111) and then picked … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ishant strikes thrice as Sri Lanka make 361/6 (Lunch Report).

Alberto Contador apologizes for the way he took Tour de France lead from Andy Schleck

Tour leader Contador apologizes to Schleck

MADRID – Spanish cyclist Alberto Contador has apologized for the way he took over the lead in the Tour de France from rival Andy Schleck.
During Monday’s stage, Schleck’s chain came off and Contador kept riding, rather than waiting in accordance with race etiquette.
In a video posted on YouTube, Contador said: …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tiger Woods”mistress’ no longer wanted on ‘Celebrity Apprentice’

NEW YORK – Tiger Woods’ alleged mistress Rachel Uchitel is no longer wanted on the set of Donald Trump’s popular reality show “The Celebrity Apprentice” after she joined the cast of VH1’s “Celebrity Rehab” over the weekend.

“It’s a terrible decision. We have zero interest in her now,” Trump told TMZ.com.

“She made a bad … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tiger Woods’ ‘mistress’ no longer wanted on ‘Celebrity Apprentice’.

Ponting wants ICC to use decision review system in every Test

SYDNEY – Australian skipper Ricky Ponting wants the International Cricket Council to use the decision review system in every Test series.

The referral system is not in action in Australia’s current two-match series against Pakistan in England because the Pakistan Cricket Board was not prepared to meet the additional costs involved.

One of the problems … Read : Ponting wants ICC to use decision review system in every Test.

Hussey strongly opposes changes to ODI format

SYDNEY – Australian batsman Mike Hussey has strongly opposed cricket Australia’s plans to change the oldest limited-overs format.

Cricket Australia’s plans to convert the second half of the Ford Ranger Cup competition from two 50-over innings to four 20-over innings have been opposed in the name of tentative innovations.

CA chief executive James Sutherland has used his … Read more >>>.

Pietersen blames Capello’s strict, joyless regime for football WC woes

LONDON – England’s Twenty20 World Cup winning batsman Kevin Pietersen has blamed coach Fabio Capello’s strict and joyless regime for the football team’s flop in South Africa.

Pietersen, 30, reckons that England’s soccer manager ought to have allowed his players to enjoy some of the sights and delights of South Africa.

Pietersen, a close friend of midfielder …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak NA committee criticises ‘overage’ PCB chief Butt for ruining cricket in country

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Sports has called for removal of all elderly people heading the country’s sports bodies, while criticising people like Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ijaz Butt for ruining the sport in the country.

Referring to 72-year-old Butt, the committee’s chairman Iqbal Muhammad Ali said: “Elderly people sitting in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pak NA committee criticises ‘overage’ PCB chief Butt for ruining cricket in country.

Arsenal will decide Fabregas”Barcelona saga’: Guardiola

LONDON – Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has admitted that Arsenal remain very much in the driving seat over a decision on Cesc Fabregas’ move to the Spanish club this summer.

“I think bringing in Cesc will cost a lot and if Arsenal don’t want to negotiate he won’t come,” The Independent quoted Fabregas, as … Read more >>>.

ICC launches online competition to suggest names for ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 mascot

DUBAI – The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced it is presenting cricket fans with a unique opportunity to play a part in ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 by inviting them to propose a name for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 mascot, an elephant.

Cricket fans can make their suggestions between 20 to 27 …. Original source  : ICC launches online competition to suggest names for ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 mascot.

Afridi could lose one-day, T20 captaincy after leaving team in lurch in England

LONDON – Shahid Afridi’s abrupt retirement from Test cricket, leaving the team in lurch during the ongoing England tour, has compelled Pakistani selectors and the team management to rethink their decision to continue with the flamboyant all rounder as captain of the one-day and T20 teams.

Afridi announced his retirement soon after Pakistan lost the … Read more »».

Qadir blasts Mohammed Yousuf for contemplating return to international cricket

KARACHI – : Former Pakistan chief selector Abdul Qadir has criticised retired captain Mohammed Yousuf for contemplating a come back to international cricket, following calls from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to come out of retirement to bolster the middle-order during the on going Test series in England.

Qadir told a private television channel that the … Original article on : Qadir blasts Mohammed Yousuf for contemplating return to international cricket.

Scoreboard: India vs Sri Lanka, Day 3, First Test

GALLE – The following is the scoreboard at lunch on the third day of the first cricket Test between India and Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium here Tuesday.
Sri Lanka:
Tharanga Paranavitana c Dhoni b Sharma 111
Tillekratne Dilshan c Dhoni b Mithun 25
Kumar Sangakkara c Tendulkar b Sehwag 103 …. Original source  : Scoreboard: India vs Sri Lanka, Day 3, First Test.

Furious Andy Schleck seeks his revenge as Tour de France mountain showdown continues

Angry Tour de France rivals closer than ever

BAGNERES-DE-LUCHON, France – Andy Schleck is furious and Alberto Contador is on the defensive, but the Tour de France is far from decided with the riders facing the most difficult day of the race Tuesday.
Schleck lost the overall leader’s yellow jersey to defending champion Contador on Monday after … Original article on : Furious Andy Schleck seeks his revenge as Tour de France mountain showdown continues.

Sri Lanka make 361/6 against India at lunch

GALLE – Sri Lanka made 361 for six in 93 overs in the first innings at lunch on the third day of the first cricket Test against India at the Galle International Stadium here Tuesday.

Prasanna Jayawardene was batting on 20 while Rangana Herath was yet to open his account when the umpires called for lunch.
…. Source article  : Sri Lanka make 361/6 against India at lunch.

Mum of Dean Jones’ love child says she’s still in love with him

MELBOURNE – The mother of retired Australian cricketer Dean Jones’ love child has revealed that although she is disappointed in the former sports star, she is still in love with him.

Kerri-Anne Hamilton, a Sydney flight attendant, had a secret relationship for 10 years with Jones, 49, and their affair came to an end when …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mum of Dean Jones’ love child says she’s still in love with him.

Trialing of split format for limited overs cricket will hurt Oz WC preparations: Hussey

SYDNEY – The rush to trial the new split format for limited overs cricket this domestic summer will hamper Australia’s run to the World Cup, feels middle-order batsman Michael Hussey and some others.

“We have to make sure we try and get as many players prepared for the World Cup in the subcontinent as … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Trialing of split format for limited overs cricket will hurt Oz WC preparations: Hussey.

George, Usman Khawaja likely to debut against Pak

SYDNEY – Pacer Peter George and batsman Usman Khawaja have outside chances of making their Test debuts as illness and injury dogged the Australian team’s build-up for the second Test against Pakistan.

Ben Hilfenhaus is yet to test out his injured left shoulder before the Headingley match while Marcus North sat out training on … Read : George, Usman Khawaja likely to debut against Pak.

Axe 50-over cricket to save fast bowlers getting extinct like ‘dinosaurs’: Imran

SYDNEY – Pakistani cricket legend Imran Khan has suggested axing 50-over cricket as a way to ease the unprecedented stress on fast bowlers so that they do not become an extinct species like dinosaurs.

The former Pakistan captain, who in 1992 led his country to World Cup glory, made these remarks while giving the annual Cowdrey … Original source on Gaea Times at : Axe 50-over cricket to save fast bowlers getting extinct like ‘dinosaurs’: Imran.

Ijaz hints at Mohammed Yousuf’s return to Pak squad

LONDON – Pakistan assistant coach Ijaz Ahmed has hinted that the team management is seriously considering recalling former captain Mohammed Yousuf for the ongoing England tour.

Following the unexpected Test retirement of skipper Shahid Afridi last week, speculations were rife that the troubled Pakistani team management would recall either of the two former captains-Mohammed Yousuf or … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ijaz hints at Mohammed Yousuf’s return to Pak squad.

Goal line technology not on FIFA agenda at Wales meeting

LONDON – oal-line technology will not be on the agenda when football’s lawmakers meet in Wales this week, contrary to indications given by FIFA president Sepp Blatter.

According to the Daily Express, the technical sub-committee of the International Football Association Board will meet in Cardiff tomorrow.

As decided in May, the sub-committee will only discuss the continuing … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Goal line technology not on FIFA agenda at Wales meeting.

Butt aims at exploiting “flaws” to help Pak beat Australia at Headingly

LONDON – Newly-appointed Pakistan Test skipper Salman Butt is beaming with confidence ahead of the second Test against Australia starting Wednesday (today) at Headingly, and believes that the Kangaroos are beatable if his squad plays to its potential.

“Australia have a few flaws and it is up to the opponents to exploit these,” Butt told The …. Source  : Butt aims at exploiting “flaws” to help Pak beat Australia at Headingly.

Kyle Parker To Announce Decision Today

CLEMSON (GaeaTimes.com)- On Wednesday night at 12:39 am, the Clemson Sports Information Director Tim Bourret released a media statement saying that head coach of Clemson Tigers Dabo Swinney had received words from quarterback player Kyle Parker regarding the later’s decision on returning to the team. The statement mentioned that Kyle Parker will make his … Read more : Kyle Parker To Announce Decision Today.

Hampshire snubs Pietersen

LONDON – England batsman Kevin Pietersen has been snubbed by Hampshire and will have no match practice before next week’s first Test against Pakistan.

The county refused to pick Pietersen against Kent on Sunday, even though England wanted him to play.

It is a major snub to Pietersen, who has certainly made his final appearance …. Source article  : Hampshire snubs Pietersen.

India to host 2011 Champions Trophy

CHENNAI – The 2011 Champions Trophy for men has been allotted to India, while the Netherlands will host the women’s event.

The commercial success of the Hero Honda World Cup in Delhi earlier this year has obviously been a key factor that influenced FIH’s decision to allot the elite tournament, restricted to the top six ranked …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India to host 2011 Champions Trophy.

Seven English clubs ban use of Vuvuzelas

LONDON – Seven English Premier League clubs have banned use of Vuvuzelas at their grounds in fear that they can be used as weapons.

Clubs fear the horns could injure fans or hit players if hurled on a pitch.

Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham, Everton, Birmingham City, Fulham and Liverpool have outlawed them.

West Ham branded vuvuzelas an …. Read the original article  : Seven English clubs ban use of Vuvuzelas.

Watch Flintoff play petrol pump attendant in Shell ad

LONDON – All-rounder Andrew Flintoff, who has had two knee operations since helping England win the Ashes and hopes to make his long-awaited return from knee surgery, can be seen promoting Shell’s new FuelSave Unleaded petrol.

He said: “I went 13 miles on a single litre… that’s a few trips to the gym for free for … Read more »»».

Barmy Army should turn out for this year’s Ashes: Ponting

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

The five-Test series starts on November 25 in Brisbane.

“I have said for a long time even though they booed me at every opportunity last year, they are the … Read : Barmy Army should turn out for this year’s Ashes: Ponting.

Becks’ confession sends Lego sales soaring

LONDON – British footballer David Beckham has sent the sale of Lego skyrocketing after he confessed his love for the construction toys.

Beckham, 35, had said that he would be playing with the tiny blocks if he had not been a footballer, and that in his spare time in Italy he had been piecing together a …. Source article  : Becks’ confession sends Lego sales soaring.

Colt McCoy Ties Knot With Rachel Glandorf

AUSTIN (GaeaTimes.com)- Cleveland Browns quarterback Colt McCoy has ultimately got hitched to his long time girl friend Rachel Glandorf. The pair exchanged vows during the weekend in midst of family members and friends. The wedding was solemnized at Westover Hills Church of Christ and the following reception party was held at TDS Exotic …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian Hockey Scandal Shocks All

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Indian Hockey has witnessed two big scandals which have surprised and shocked one and all associated with the sport. Reportedly, an Indian Hockey support staff member has been accused of “sexual misconduct” while on tour. On the other hand M. K. Kaushik who happens to be the coach of Indian Hockey Women’s … Read more : Indian Hockey Scandal Shocks All.

India forced to follow-on after being bowled out for 276

GALLE – Sri Lanka enforced a follow-on after bowling out India for 276 runs in the first innings on the fourth day of the first cricket Test at the Galle International Stadium here Wednesday.
Resuming at overnight score of 140 for three, India could add only 136 runs and lost seven wickets in the … Read more >>>.

Muralitharan edges closer to 800 Test wickets as India struggle (Lunch Report)

GALLE – Muttiah Muralitharan picked up three wickets to move closer to becoming the first bowler to get 800 Test wickets as India slumped to 260 for eight in their first innings at lunch on the fourth day of the first cricket Test here Wednesday.
Indian batsmen paid the price of poor shot … Read more : Muralitharan edges closer to 800 Test wickets as India struggle (Lunch Report).

Colt Mccoy Weds Rachel Glandorf: Serenade gets Online Attention

TEXAS (GeaeTimes.com) — Although he failed to bring the national title to Austin, Colt McCoy seems to be doing great when it comes to his wedding.On the evening of January 11, McCoy asked the hands of beautiful Miss Racheal Glandorf at Darell k.Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium by displaying the writing “Will You Marry Me?” …. Original source  : Colt Mccoy Weds Rachel Glandorf: Serenade gets Online Attention.

Wide-open Team US training camp begins in Las Vegas under head coach Mike Krzyzewski

Wide-open US training camp begins under Coach K

LAS VEGAS – Mike Krzyzewski was already down two players even before he ran his first practice.
There’s still plenty more he needs to evaluate.
The Americans opened training camp Tuesday, giving the Hall of Fame coach and his staff their first chance to look at the 20 players competing …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Does 7-time champ Lance Armstrong have shot at stage win with 4 days left in Tour de France?

Does Armstrong still have shot at Tour stage win?

PAU, France – Lance Armstrong came oh-so-close to the Tour de France stage win he’s been yearning for in his final appearance, and one could still come with four racing days left.
The seven-time Tour champion ruled himself out of contention 10 days ago after struggling in the … Read more »».

Sweet Lou’s Swan Song: Cubs look ahead after Piniella says he will retire after this season

Cubs look ahead after Piniella says he will retire

CHICAGO – Just like a long line of predecessors, Lou Piniella thought he could lead the Chicago Cubs to that elusive championship and end a drought that dates to 1908.
Barring an epic turnaround, he can forget about that.
General manager Jim Hendry will get another shot, though.
New owner …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sweet Lou’s Swan Song: Cubs look ahead after Piniella says he will retire after this season.

Lunch scoreboard: India vs. Sri Lanka, Day 4, First Test

GALLE – Scoreboard at lunch on the fourth day of the first cricket Test between India and Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium here Wednesday.
Sri Lanka (first innings): 520 for eight declared
India (first innings, overnight 140/3):
Gautam Gambhir lbw b Malinga 2
Virender Sehwag c Pranavitana b Welegedara … Read more »».

India struggling at 260/8 against Sri Lanka

GALLE – India were 260 for eight in the first innings, in reply to Sri Lanka’s 520 for eight declared, at lunch on the fourth day of the first cricket Test at the Galle International Stadium here Wednesday.
Pragyan Ojha was batting on one and Ishant Sharma was yet to open his account at …. Original article  : India struggling at 260/8 against Sri Lanka.

Flintoff hopes to be back in action in next few weeks

SYDNEY – All-rounder Andrew Flintoff, who has had two knee operations since helping England win the Ashes, hopes to make his long-awaited return from knee surgery “in the next few weeks”.

Flintoff retired from Test cricket after that match in August 2009, but he still hopes to play in one-day internationals for England, as well as …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Flintoff hopes to be back in action in next few weeks.

Ponting asks Oz pacers to perform better

SYDNEY – Skipper Ricky Ponting has asked Australian fast bowlers to overcome their lacklustre form at Lord’s and perform in the second Test against Pakistan at Headingley
Australia bowled Pakistan out twice within four days to convincingly win the match, 11 of those 20 wickets came from all rounder Shane Watson and part …. Original source  : Ponting asks Oz pacers to perform better.

Muralitharan finishes with 800 Test wickets

GALLE – Sri Lankan off-spinner Muthiah Muralitharan made a perfect finish to a stellar career, claiming his 800th Test wicket in his last match against India here Thursday and becoming the first bowler to reach the milestone.

Muralitharan, who was eight wickets short of the landmark figure of 800 coming into his swansong Test, finished with … Original article on : Muralitharan finishes with 800 Test wickets.

Cricket: Sticks For The Quicks

GALLE, SRI LANKA (GaeaTimes.com)- Fast bowlers seem to have made a much awaited comeback into test cricket as Lasith Malinga ripped through the Indian batting order. Dismissing Gautam Gambhir for a duck in both the innings and showing a variety of swing and movement of the pitch, Lasith Malinga gave the Indian batsmen little chance …. Original article  : Cricket: Sticks For The Quicks.

Ponting’s decision to bat ’shocking’: Umar Gul

LEEDS – Pakistan fast bowler Umar Gul has described Ricky Ponting’s decision to bat first in the second Test at Headingley as “shocking” after the Australia recorded their second lowest Test total against Pakistan. ustralia’s batsmen were left humiliated as they scrambled to 88 all … Read : Ponting’s decision to bat ’shocking’: Umar Gul.

Peter Ingram to replace Ryder in New Zealand team

WELLINGTON – New Zealand has included Central Districts opener Peter Ingram in the cricket squad for next month’s tri-series in Sri Lanka.

Ingram replaced Jesse Ryder in the 14-man squad after Ryder was ruled out yesterday with an elbow injury.

It represented a remarkable change of forturne for the 31-year-old teacher Ingram, who wasn’t included …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Peter Ingram to replace Ryder in New Zealand team.

Hamilton revved up to race on his favourite tracks

LONDON – Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton, who leads the championship by 12 points, is revved up for two of his favourite tracks, starting with Hockenheim this Sunday and the Hungaroring a week later.

The McLaren driver and teammate Jenson Button finished behind Vettel at the European Grand Prix on June 27, the same day …. Read the original article  : Hamilton revved up to race on his favourite tracks.

Beckham persuaded Henry to join US soccer league

LONDON – Ace French striker Thierry Henry has admitted that he was persuaded to join New York Red Bulls by David Beckham.

Ex-Arsenal striker Henry’s first game since leaving Barcelona will be against his old rivals Spurs tomorrow.

“I did approach David about my move. He did not say anything negative about the MLS and told me … Read more >>.

Retiring Koertzen concedes umpiring was difficult, but pressure improved skills

LEEDS – Retiring South African cricket umpire Rudi Koertzen has conceded that it is extremely difficult to officiate a match.

Koertzen, who retires after the end of the second Test between Pakistan and Australia being played at Leeds, however, said the pressure had only helped him to improve as the years went by.

Having umpired in 108 …. Read the original article  : Retiring Koertzen concedes umpiring was difficult, but pressure improved skills.

Vettel believes he has the edge at German Grand Prix

LONDON – Twenty-three-year-old Sebastian Vettel believes his familiarity with the Hockenheim track gives him the edge at the German Grand Prix this weekend.

Vettel trails World Championship leader Lewis Hamilton by 24 points heading into the race.

The Sun quoted Vettel, as saying: “Hockenheim is only half an hour from my home town. It’s definitely something …. Original article  : Vettel believes he has the edge at German Grand Prix.

Cole’s swipe at Chelsea, says he joined the biggest club in England

LONDON – Midfielder Joe Cole took a swipe at his former club Chelsea by saying that he has joined the biggest club in the country.

Liverpool’s new signing reckons that the club is ready to challenge Chelsea for the Premier league title.

Cole said: “When I knew Liverpool were interested it was a no-brainer because they are … Read more : Cole’s swipe at Chelsea, says he joined the biggest club in England.

Man U determined to win record 19th Premier League title

LONDON – Manchester United is determined to win a record 19th Premier League title and be crowned the undisputed kings of English football after they were declared the most valuable club in the world.

United equalled Liverpool’s total of 18 in 2009, but lost out to Chelsea last season in the race to be Premier …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Man City still trying to sign US striker Donovan

LONDON – Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has admitted that the club is still trying to sign US star striker Landon Donovan.

The City manager’s first approach for the LA Galaxy forward was snubbed by the MLS.

Mancini said: “Landon Donovan is a good player and there is the possibility that he could come to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Man City still trying to sign US striker Donovan.

New Pak skipper vows not to lambast ‘non-performing’ players publicly

LEEDS – New Pakistan Test captain Salman Butt has vowed not to lambast teammates publicly who disappoint him, after he had to undergo same sort of embarrassment six months ago when he was criticized by then skipper Mohammad Yousuf.

Butt’s culpability in the run-out of Mohammad Yousuf in the Test against Australia at Hobart prompted then … Read more >>>.

Manchester United rated as richest club in world

WASHINGTON – Manchester United has been rated as the most valuable sporting club in the world.

A study done by Forbes.com said that shrewd marketing to a worldwide fan base made Manchester United the richest club in the world.

Forbes released its list of the world’s most valuable teams on Wednesday, with the Premier League [..] Read the original article: here.

Winter fast approaching for USA Luge, which opens its 2010-11 training camp season on Friday

USA Luge team to open training camp Friday

LAKE PLACID, N.Y. – Former women’s world champion Erin Hamlin and three-time Olympian Tony Benshoof are among 14 athletes who will be part of USA Luge’s season-opening training camp starting Friday.
It’ll be the first camp overseen by five-time Olympian Mark Grimmette, who retired from sliding a month after … Read more »».

India take 48 run lead, Muralitharan one short of 800 Test wickets (Lunch report)

GALLE – Sri Lanka closed in on a victory in the first cricket Test against India, leaving the visitors tottering at 292 for eight at lunch on the fifth day here Thursday.
V.V.S. Laxman was resolutely batting on 58 while Ishant Sharma was on 18. Following on, India have taken a slender lead of … Read : India take 48 run lead, Muralitharan one short of 800 Test wickets (Lunch report).

For Schleck, its now or never as Tourmalet looms in last Pyrenees stage at Tour de France

Schleck ready for ‘queen stage’ at Tour de France

PAU, France – For Andy Schleck, it’s make or break time at the Tour de France.
The 25-year-old Luxembourg rider says he knows he’ll be on the spot in Thursday’s “queen stage” of the race, needing to overcome his eight-second deficit to defending champion Alberto Contador during the … Original article on : For Schleck, its now or never as Tourmalet looms in last Pyrenees stage at Tour de France.

‘Bressie is my heir in England squad,’ says Flintoff

LONDON – Andrew Flintoff has named Tim Bresnan as his natural all-rounder heir in England’s Test side.
With the Yorkshireman part of a five-man bowling attack, Flintoff believes Andrew Strauss’ men are hot favourites for Ashes glory this winter.
Aussie legend Ian Chappell had suggested England talk Flintoff about a Test return this winter …. Read the original article  : ‘Bressie is my heir in England squad,’ says Flintoff.

Yorkshire chief eager to host India-Pak Test at ‘revamped’ Headingley ground

LONDON – English county Yorkshire’s chief executive, Stewart Regan, has said he would love to see the s Headingley ground acting as a neutral venue for a Test match between India and Pakistan.

“There’s talk of Pakistan playing India next year, and we want to be at the forefront of the queue to host one of … Read : Yorkshire chief eager to host India-Pak Test at ‘revamped’ Headingley ground.

South Africa planning IPL-style rugby union

CAPE TOWN – A group of South African entrepreneurs are pressing ahead with an Indian Premiere League (IPL)-style rugby union, with the first tournament planned for January 2012.

Eight private franchises will own teams and players will be part of an auction, as in the IPL.

The matches will be played with two 20-minute halves, two-minute half-time, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : South Africa planning IPL-style rugby union.

Brit Asian boxer Amir Khan angry at seven-month ring lay-off

LONDON – WBA Light Welterweight Brit Asian champ Amir Khan has revealed his anger at being forced into a seven-month ring lay-off.

Khan last fought when he stopped Paulie Malignaggi in May, and is now due to meet Juan Manuel Marquez or Juan Diaz on December 11.

“It is a long break and my team thought it … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brit Asian boxer Amir Khan angry at seven-month ring lay-off.

Manchester United to offer improved four-year deal to Vidic

LONDON – Manchester United is set to offer a new four-year deal worth 90,000 pounds-a-week to its defender Nemanja Vidic, which will place him among the highest earners at Old Trafford.

Vidic’s position at United has been in doubt, with his agent indicating … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Manchester United to offer improved four-year deal to Vidic.

Back to the future for Roddick; Hewitt crashes out

ATLANTA – Andy Roddick will relive his past – against an opponent he beat for the title in his previous appearance at the Atlanta Tennis Championships – after posting a 6-1, 6-7(1), 6-3 victory to reach the quarter-finals.

The top seed Thursday stumbled badly in the second-set tiebreaker against fellow US player Rajeev Ram before pulling …. Read the original article  : Back to the future for Roddick; Hewitt crashes out.

Villa vows to ‘do the maximum’ to get Fabregas to Barcelona

LONDON – Barcelona David Villa striker has said that he will do everything he can to persuade Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas to join him at the Nou Camp.

Villa is the latest Barcelona star to call on Fabregas to leave Arsenal, following similar pleas made earlier by … Read more »».

Younis must approach PCB directly to earn his place back in Test squad

KARACHI – : The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has said that former captain Younis Khan should approach it directly to be considered for the upcoming four match Test series against England.

PCB’s legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi said that Younis, who is currently playing county cricket …. Source article  : Younis must approach PCB directly to earn his place back in Test squad.

Stuttgart’s Khedira flattered by Real Madrid interest

HAMBURG – Germany midfielder Sami Khedira is flattered by Real Madrid’s interest and fascinated by their new coach Jose Mourinho, but he is yet to decide whether to leave VfB Stuttgart.

“Everything is open. I will make up my mind over the next days, next week at the latest. I owe that to Stuttgart,” Khedira told … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Stuttgart’s Khedira flattered by Real Madrid interest.

Strauss expects ‘dangerous’ Pakistan to give tough fight to England in Test series

LONDON – Describing the young Pakistan side as a ‘dangerous’ squad, England skipper Andrew Strauss has said that he is expecting a ‘tough challenge’ from the Salman Butt lead team in the four match Test series.

The first Test starts at Tent Bridge July 29 (Thursday).

Strauss said that … Original article on : Strauss expects ‘dangerous’ Pakistan to give tough fight to England in Test series.

France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris says players were ‘totally stupid’ to strike at World Cup

Lloris: France ‘totally stupid’ for WCup strike

PARIS – France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris says the squad was “totally stupid” to strike during a World Cup training session, and he is desperate to “restore the image” so badly damaged in South Africa.
France walked out of a training session shortly before being eliminated from the tournament at the …. Read the original article  : France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris says players were ‘totally stupid’ to strike at World Cup.

Ronaldo keen to take shirt as Real prepare for Raul departure

MADRID – Cristiano Ronaldo is keen to take over Raul Gonzalez’s legendary number 7 shirt at Real Madrid, sports daily Marca said Friday.

Ronaldo had to accept the number 9 shirt last season after his world record transfer from Manchester United, and the club managed to sell thousands of CR9 replica shirts.
But now, with Raul …. Original article  : Ronaldo keen to take shirt as Real prepare for Raul departure.

Pakistan to host international hockey league in Dubai

KARACHI – Pakistan’s hockey chiefs have sewn up a plan to launch an international hockey league in Dubai later this year.

A Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) source said players from all over the world will be featuring in the inaugural edition in December at Dubai Sports City.
Pakistan has been a no-go zone … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan to host international hockey league in Dubai.

Younis hopes for comeback at Nottingham Test

KARACHI – Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has resumed training after returning from England this week in a bid to reclaim his place in the national cricket team.

Sources close to Younis told IANS that the experienced batsman is concentrating on his form and fitness and hopes to make his international comeback in the Test series …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Younis hopes for comeback at Nottingham Test.

Gillespie takes coaching job in Zimbabwe

LONDON – Former Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie is heading to Zimbabwe to take up the position as head coach of the Kwekwe-based MidWest Rhinos.

The Midwest Rhinos’ chief executive Kenyon Ziehl said that Gillespie was delighted with the prospects of working in the African country.

“He is excited about it. He is bringing … Read more >>>.

Hampshire shuts door on Afridi

Islamabad, July 23 (ANI): Hampshire has denied signing swashbuckling Pakistan all rounder Shahid Afridi for the remaining part of the Friends Provident Twenty20 championship.

Afridi, who resigned from Test captaincy following last week’s 150 run defeat against Australia in the first Test at Lord’s, had hinted at a deal with Hampshire, however, the English county … Read more »».

Schumacher vows to win another title before quitting

London, July 23(ANI): Seven-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher has vowed to stay in the sport for at least another year in an attempt to win an eighth title.

Speculation has been rife that the 41-year-old might cut short his three-year deal with Mercedes.

“I’ll be driving for Mercedes in 2011 and my target is still another …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Brent Delahoussaye has 2-shot lead after shooting 8-under 62 to match Canadian Open record

Delahoussaye matches Canadian Open record with 62

TORONTO – Long a sleepy, leafy retreat, St. George’s Golf and Country Club got a rude awakening in its first Canadian Open in 42 years.
The hilly, tree-lined layout figured to be a stern test with its thick rough, narrow fairways and undulating greens. Instead, it turned out to be …. Source  : Brent Delahoussaye has 2-shot lead after shooting 8-under 62 to match Canadian Open record.

Olonga ‘whole-heartedly’ calls for Zimbabwe’s reintroduction into Test cricket

London, July 23(ANI): Former Zimbabwe fast bowler Henry Olonga believes that it is time for his country to be allowed back into Test cricket.

Zimbabwe last played a Test match in 2005 after a majority of the team’s first-choice players went on a strike following a dispute with the national board.

According to reports, discussions are under [..] Read the original article: here.

Button urges ’struggling’ Schumacher not to quit till he wins

London, July 23(ANI): Reigning Formula One champion Jenson Button reckons that veteran German racer Michael Schumacher would regret quitting until he proves that his return was not a huge mistake.

“I don’t think he can quit now. He has to stay next year. He has to stay until he is winning races, for himself, before he …. Read the original article  : here.

AP Source: Veteran forward Kurt Thomas agrees to 1-year contract with Bulls

AP Source: Thomas agrees to contract with Bulls

CHICAGO – A person familiar with the negotiations says veteran forward Kurt Thomas has agreed to a one-year contract with the Chicago Bulls.
The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the deal has not been finalized. Several outlets reported late Thursday that Thomas was headed to Chicago.
The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : AP Source: Veteran forward Kurt Thomas agrees to 1-year contract with Bulls.

Desmond Tutu to retire, drink redbush tea and watch cricket

London, July 23 (ANI): South African archbishop Desmond Tutu, a former apartheid activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner, has announced plans to retire on October 7 from public life after decades of fighting human rights abuses at home and abroad.

According to The Telegraph, Tutu, who coined the phrase Rainbow Nation as Nelson Mandela’s new South …. Original source  : Desmond Tutu to retire, drink redbush tea and watch cricket.

Black Caps all-rounder Oram wants his No.6 national spot back

MANAWATU – Big hitting Kiwi all-rounder Jacob Oram is reportedly working hard at the nets in a bid to reclaim the No.6 spot in the Black Caps batting lineup.

The giant Manawatu left-hander has been shuffled between the No 5, 6, 7 and 8 spots during his past 10 one-day international innings and was dropped …. Original article  : Black Caps all-rounder Oram wants his No.6 national spot back.

LEGO Taj Mahal sales skyrocket, thanks to Becks

Washington, July 23 (ANI): British footballer David Beckham’s confession of his passion for LEGO and that he was building a replica of the Taj Mahal has sent sales of the toy soaring up by 633 percent in just one day.

Becks, 35, had revealed in an appearance on the Jonathan Ross show on July 16 that … Read : LEGO Taj Mahal sales skyrocket, thanks to Becks.

Lawson says Yousuf-Younus recall will make Pak a ’solid unit’

LONDON – Former Pakistan coach Geoff Lawson believes that former captains Mohammad Yousuf and Younus Khan should be recalled for strengthening the team’s middle order.

Following the unexpected Test retirement of skipper Shahid Afridi, it has been reported … Read more >>>.

Lawson not surprised over Afridi sidestepping Test captaincy

LONDON – Former Pakistan coach Geoff Lawson has said that said that he was not surprised over all-rounder Shahid Afridi resigning Test captaincy after what was his first Test in four years.

Afridi had announced that he would quit captaincy after his side lost the first test against Australia by 150 …. Source  : Lawson not surprised over Afridi sidestepping Test captaincy.

PCB may not recall Yousuf if team wins at Leeds

KARACHI – Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will give up the idea of recalling

former captain Mohammad Yousuf for the Test series against England starting later this month if the team went on to win the second Test against Australia at Leeds Saturday.
With seven wickets in hand, Pakistan just need 40 more runs to record a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PCB may not recall Yousuf if team wins at Leeds.

Lorenzen Wright Missing?

MEMPHIS (GaeaTimes.com)- Free agent Lorenzen Wright has been missing since Sunday. His family reported a missing persons case earlier this week saying that the NBA player was last seen on Sunday when he was supposed to fly out of his hometown Memphis. The 6′11″ player 34 year old has not been found since and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lorenzen Wright Missing?.

Akmal brothers, Malik under scanner for poor performance

KARACHI – Pakistan may be on the verge of winning its first cricket Test against Australia in 15 years but the poor performance of three of the team’s leading players has raised quite a few eyebrows.
According to a report in The News Saturday, the performances of the Akmal brothers – Kamran and Umar … Original source on Gaea Times at : Akmal brothers, Malik under scanner for poor performance.

Kiwi administrator Anderson rules himself out as Howard’s replacement for ICC post

WELLINGTON – New Zealand administrator Sir John Anderson, who lost the ICC vote to former Australian premier John Howard, has ruled himself out as a nominee for ICC vice president’s post.

It was NZC and Cricket Australia’s (CA) turn to jointly nominate …. Original source  : Kiwi administrator Anderson rules himself out as Howard’s replacement for ICC post.

Man U ‘retains’ Vidic with whopping 18-mn pound deal

LONDON – Serbian defender Nemanja Vidic has agreed to stay at Manchester United for a whopping 18 million pounds, ending Jose Mourinho’s bid to lure him to Real Madrid.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson moved to keep the 28-year-old defender by making him one of … Read : Man U ‘retains’ Vidic with whopping 18-mn pound deal.

Roddick recovers to reach Atlanta semi-finals

ATLANTA – Andy Roddick repeated a victory from 2001 as he struggled past Belgian Xavier Malisse 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 to reach the semi-finals of the Atlanta Tennis Championships.

Nearly a decade ago, Roddick claimed the first ATP title of his career as he beat Malisse in the final at the event, which was cancelled and came …. Original source  : Roddick recovers to reach Atlanta semi-finals.

Cole can escape personal life backlash by quitting Chelsea for Real Madrid: Higuain

LONDON – Quitting Chelsea for Real Madrid will help England defender Ashley Cole escape the ongoing backlash from his private life believes Real Madrid’s Argentine superstar Gonzalo Higuain.

Cole has struggled to keep a low profile since his highly publicised split from pop star wife … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cole can escape personal life backlash by quitting Chelsea for Real Madrid: Higuain.

Pakistan completely out bowled Australia in Headingley Test: Lawson

LONDON – Former Pakistan coach Geoff Lawson has said that the Pakistan fast bowlers’ ability to utilize the favourable conditions in England has played a major part in putting Pakistan on top in the second Test being played against … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan completely out bowled Australia in Headingley Test: Lawson.

Jwala Gutta In Center Of Controversy

PARIS, FRANCE (GaeaTimes.com)- The World Badminton Championship in Paris will see the best badminton players from India assemble in the world’s fashion capital to prove their might. As of now a nine member badminton squad has been named who will be heading for Paris in the month of August this year. According to the …. Source article  : Jwala Gutta In Center Of Controversy.

Mariners can’t beat anyone else, so they start beating on each other in dugout fight

Mariners’ dugout fight sets new season low point

SEATTLE – Add fighting among themselves to the Mount Rainier-high list of problems the Seattle Mariners have right now.
Friday night’s 2-1 loss to Boston brought a new, most unseemly low: a mid-game fight in the dugout between benched second baseman Chone Figgins and manager Don Wakamatsu.
The brief but …. Source  : Mariners can’t beat anyone else, so they start beating on each other in dugout fight.

‘Rash’ Akmal needs to quickly get over his Twenty20 hangover: Waqar

LEEDS – Pakistan’s coach Waqar Younis has denied that his batsmen had been tainted by Twenty20 cricket with the exception of Umar Akmal.

“Definitely I would say that about Umar Akmal. I think he’s a little rash when it comes to Test-match cricket, maybe he’s just … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Rash’ Akmal needs to quickly get over his Twenty20 hangover: Waqar.

Smith’s knock of 77 puts spotlight back on North’s place in Oz team

SYDNEY – Young Test cricketer Steve Smith turned the spotlight back on Marcus North’s place in the team with his knock of 77 in the second Test against Pakistan in Headingley.

The 21-year-old’s display of wide range shot making at Leeds could not have come at … Read more >>>.

Tiger Woods”mistress’ Rachel Uchitel ‘addicted to alcohol’

NEW YORK – Tiger Woods’ highest-profile former mistress, Rachel Uchitel, is addicted to alcohol, it has emerged.

Uchitel is also addicted to the prescription sleeping pill Ambien, according to RadarOnline.com.

The former event planner and New York nightclub hostess is set to star on … Read more : Tiger Woods’ ‘mistress’ Rachel Uchitel ‘addicted to alcohol’.

Arizona’s Kelly Johnson hits for cycle but Giants beat error-prone Diamondbacks 7-4

Johnson’s cycle not enough, Giants top Arizona 7-4

PHOENIX – Kelly Johnson hit for the cycle but it wasn’t enough to overcome three costly Arizona errors, and the surging San Francisco Giants beat the Diamondbacks 7-4 on Friday night.
Aubrey Huff hit two solo home runs and added an RBI single in San Francisco’s 14th victory in …. Read the original article  : here.

Giants 7, Diamondbacks 4

Giants 7, Diamondbacks 4

San Francisco

Arizona

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FSnchz 2b …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Giants 7, Diamondbacks 4.

Josh Beckett strong in return from DL, Hall’s homer sends Red Sox over squabbling Mariners 2-1

Beckett strong in return, Red Sox beat Mariners

SEATTLE – Josh Beckett was in command in his return from two months on the disabled list, and Bill Hall homered in the seventh inning to lift the Boston Red Sox to a 2-1 victory over the squabbling Seattle Mariners on Friday night.
Beckett was much like most pitchers …. Read the original article  : Josh Beckett strong in return from DL, Hall’s homer sends Red Sox over squabbling Mariners 2-1.

WC hero Paul the Octopus ‘to become silver screen legend’

LONDON – Paul the Octopus, who rose to fame with its incredibly accurate predictions of World Cup 2010 match results, is all set to become a part of the showbiz.

Filming of ‘The Murder of Paul the Octopus’ has already finished in South Africa and post-production work is …. Original article  : WC hero Paul the Octopus ‘to become silver screen legend’.

Red Sox 2, Mariners 1

Red Sox 2, Mariners 1

Boston

Seattle

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Lowrie 2b … Original source on Gaea Times at : Red Sox 2, Mariners 1.

Headingley Test win against Australia will have far reaching effects: Butt

LONDON – Pakistan captain Salman Butt has predicted a major turnaround in the fortunes of the national cricket team following their morale boosting win against Australia in the just concluded Headingley Test.

Emerging successful in his very first Test as captain, Butt said the win would have far reaching effects.

“I think Pakistan cricket will not be …. Original source  : Headingley Test win against Australia will have far reaching effects: Butt.

Ponting tips England to beat Pakistan in Test series

LONDON – Australian captain Ricky Ponting believes that England are better equipped to win their upcoming series against Pakistan.

Ponting said that England have got home advantage, and a comparatively balanced side.

“There is no doubt that Pakistan’s bowling is one of the best in the world and better than that of England. But … Read more : Ponting tips England to beat Pakistan in Test series.

Headingley Test performance against Australia ‘a dream come true’: Aamer

London, July 25(ANI): Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Aamer has described his match-winning performance against Australia in the Headingley Test as a ‘dream come true’ and one he would remember for a long time to come.

Aamer’s bowling helped Pakistan register their first Test win against Australia in 15 years.

The 18-year-old took 11 wickets in the two …. Read the original article  : Headingley Test performance against Australia ‘a dream come true’: Aamer.

Christine Bleakley ‘banned from seeing Frank Lampard’s kids’

London, July 25 (ANI): Irish TV presenter Christine Bleakley has apparently been banned from seeing boyfriend Frank Lampard’s children by his ex.

Bleakley and Lampard are seeing each other since a year but the former One Show host has never met Lampard’s daughters Luna, 4, and three-year-old Isla.

Lampard’s ex Elen Rives said that she was not …. Source  : Christine Bleakley ‘banned from seeing Frank Lampard’s kids’.

Hockey coach questions Basavaraj’s role

CHENNAI – Ramesh Parameswaran, former assistant coach of the Indian men’s hockey team, has hinted that politics played a major role in Basavaraj, who was involved in a sex scandal, being “promoted” from a still photographer to a videographer to a video analyst of the national women’s squad.

Parameswaran, who was assistant to national coaches Vasudevan … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hockey coach questions Basavaraj’s role.

Is Christine Bleakley pregnant with Frank Lampard’s child?

London, July 25 (ANI): Love-struck footballer Frank Lampard has sparked speculations that his girlfriend is pregnant – after he was spotted touching Christine Bleakley’s tummy.

The moment came after the England midfielder took former ‘One Show’ beauty on a romantic sunshine break to Italy’s Lake Como.

“Frank just couldn’t stop caressing and kissing Christine,” News of …. Source  : Is Christine Bleakley pregnant with Frank Lampard’s child?.

Glenn McGrath gets engaged to girlfriend Sara

SYDNEY – Australian bowling great Glenn McGrath has got engaged to his American Italian girlfriend, Sara Leonardi, two years after the death of his wife Jane.

“We are engaged and we are really happy,” said McGrath.
In 2008, Jane passed away at the age of 42 due to breast cancer and after that McGrath never thought … Read more : Glenn McGrath gets engaged to girlfriend Sara.

I’m innocent, says suspended weightlifting coach

NEW DELHI – Suspended weightlifting coach Ramesh Malhotra said Sunday that all charges of sexual harassment levelled against him by Sydney Olympics bronze medallist Karnam Malleswari are baseless.

Malleswari has accused Malhotra, a Sports Authority of India (SAI) coach, of sexually harassing junior girls at the national camp in Patiala.
Malhotra, didn’t …. Source  : I’m innocent, says suspended weightlifting coach.

Stewart backs Colly to play till he is 40

London, July 25 (ANI): Former England captain Alec Stewart believes Paul Collingwood is showing all the signs he can play international cricket until he is 40 after a memorable year so far.

Collingwood was the inspiration behind England lifting the World Twenty20 title in the Caribbean back in May and even hit the winning runs against … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Stewart backs Colly to play till he is 40.

Playing on Indian pitches not good preparation for Ashes: Ponting

LEEDS – Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting has said that playing on Indian pitches a couple of months before the Ashes series is not good preparation for his players.

A worried Ponting said after his side’s three-wicket defeat to Pakistan at Leeds that “if you were trying to set down and map out your perfect preparation … Read more : Playing on Indian pitches not good preparation for Ashes: Ponting.

Pak has potent pace attack to beat England: Butt

LEEDS – Pakistan cricket captain Salman Butt has claimed that he has a pace attack that could give England a run for their money in a forthcoming three Test series.

Pace trio Mohammad Asif (11 wickets), Mohammad Aamer (11) and Umar Gul (8) claimed a collective 30 wickets in the two-test series against Australia.

“I … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pak has potent pace attack to beat England: Butt.

PCB announces reward for victorious players

Islamabad, July 25(ANI): The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced prize money of 500,000 rupees to each player in the national team that beat Australia in the Headingley Test against Australia.

PCB chairman Ijaz Butt said in a statement that the non-playing members of the squad and team officials would receive 250,000 rupees, The Daily … Read more >>.

Benaud praises Butt after Pak’s inspiring win against Aussies

LONDON – Former Australian cricket captain and well-known commentator Richie Benaud has hailed Pakistan cricket captain Salman Butt as a hero for taking his team to victory against Australia after 15 years.

“He batted splendidly and was a gracious winner. There were plenty of nerve-ends showing in the Pakistan run chase on the final morning of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Benaud praises Butt after Pak’s inspiring win against Aussies.

NTPC adds 490 MW to power the Commonwealth Games

NEW DELHI – State-run power utility NTPC has added 490 MW, commissioning the second unit of its Dadri plant near here, to power the 2010 Commonwealth Games, beginning Oct 3.

“NTPC has kept its promise to power the Commonwealth Games by bringing on stream the second unit of 490 MW at the Dadri project,” a …. Source article  : NTPC adds 490 MW to power the Commonwealth Games.

Swann transforms from clinically depressed county journeyman to England great

LONDON – Ace England off-spinner Graham Swann has revealed that there was a time that he was so depressed that he thought of quitting cricket, and adds, that he is equally surprised to be now considered an England great.

Swann says that he needs to maintain his form in the Test series against Pakistan and do …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Swann transforms from clinically depressed county journeyman to England great.

San Francisco Marathon In The City Today

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- It has been a busy weekend for San Francisco. With the 32nd annual San Francisco Marathon scheduled to kick off at 5:30 in the morning today, the residents and officials of the city are busy making preparations to welcome the 24,000 runners expected to take part in the competitions this year. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Keith Bulluck In New York Giants

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- The top unrestricted free agent Keith Bulluck has signed a one year deal with New York Giants. Gary Wichard, the agent of the veteran player confirmed the news to a reputed media source. The amount of the deal has not yet been disclosed but according to sources the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Keith Bulluck In New York Giants.

Lou Gehrig Disease Cure Behind Tri-State Trek

CONNECTICUT (GaeaTimes.com)- There is no doubt about the fact that the Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis disease that is also known popularly as Lou Gehrig disease is one of the most painful and deadly disease. However, there are very few people who know about the disease or bear a clear idea about the early symptoms of … Read more »».

Maradona expresses admiration of Castro

HAVANA – Argentine football legend Diego Maradona is an admirer of long-time Cuban leader Fidel Castro, he said in an interview published in official Cuban media.

“Tell Fidel that I love him,” Maradona told Cuban website Cubadebate.cu while on a visit to Venezuela.
Maradona said he would travel to Cuba within the next 30 days to …. Source article  : Maradona expresses admiration of Castro.

Snooker pals pay tribute to legend ‘Alex Higgins’

LONDON – Pals of the snooker champion Alex Higgins paid tribute to the legend after he died of throat cancer on Saturday night.

“We all knew he was ill but this is a very sad and tragic loss to the game. Our condolences go out to his friends and family. He made an enormous contribution … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Snooker pals pay tribute to legend ‘Alex Higgins’.

Abby Guerra Is Alive

PHOENIX (GaeaTimes.com)-Abby Guerra and her four other friends were on their way back home from Disneyland when they crashed their car on an Arizona interstate on July 18, 2010. In the frightful accident two persons died and others were injured. The officials mixed up the identities of Abby Guerra and Marlena Candu declaring …. Original source  : Abby Guerra Is Alive.

Ferrari fined 100 K dollars for breaching FIA sporting regulations

LONDON – Motor sports most famous team Ferrari has been asked to cough up 100,000 US dollars for breaching FIA sporting regulations and the International Sporting Code during the German Grand Prix held over the weekend.

According to The Sun and The Guardian, Ferrari turned the result into a farce by illegally telling Felipe Massa … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ferrari fined 100 K dollars for breaching FIA sporting regulations.

Man City ready to get Torres at right price

LONDON – Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is ready to bid for Liverpool ace striker Fernando Torres and battle it out with Chelsea to get the Spanish forward.

Mancini said: “Torres is one of the best strikers in Europe and is already playing in the Premier League for three years and knows it very well.” … Read more : Man City ready to get Torres at right price.

Openers give Sri Lanka a good start (Lunch Report)

COLOMBO – Opener Tillekaratne Dilshan hit a brisk half-century as Sri Lanka made 128 for one in the first innings at lunch against India on the first day of the second Test match at the Sinhalese Sports Club here Monday.
Tharanga Pranavitana was batting on 45 and skipper Kumar Sangakkara on 18 at the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Openers give Sri Lanka a good start (Lunch Report).

Carl Pettersson overcomes 6-stroke deficit to win Canadian Open, his 4th PGA Tour victory

Carl Pettersson rallies to win Canadian Open

TORONTO – Carl Pettersson’s family left Sweden when he was 10, spent five years in England, then settled in Greensboro, N.C.
“I call myself a mutt,” Pettersson said Sunday after rallying to win the Canadian Open for his fourth PGA Tour victory. “I’m not your typical Swede, as you know. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Carl Pettersson overcomes 6-stroke deficit to win Canadian Open, his 4th PGA Tour victory.

Andre Dawson, Whitey Herzog and Doug Harvey inducted into Baseball’s Hall of Fame

Dawson, Herzog and Harvey enter Hall of Fame

COOPERSTOWN, N.Y. – Andre Dawson left a lasting impression on the ballfield with his true grit and sense of integrity. His eloquent speech upon entering the pantheon of baseball’s greatest stars likely won’t soon be forgotten, either.
At his induction Sunday into the Baseball Hall of Fame, Dawson charmed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Andre Dawson, Whitey Herzog and Doug Harvey inducted into Baseball’s Hall of Fame.

Angels boost rotation, acquiring All-Star right-hander Dan Haren from Diamondbacks

Angels boost rotation, acquire Haren from D-backs

PHOENIX – The Los Angeles Angels made a move to keep up with the Texas Rangers in the AL West by trading for infielder Alberto Callaspo last week.
The next step was to add a quality pitcher, one who could counter the Rangers acquiring former Cy Young winner Cliff Lee.
A … Original article on : Angels boost rotation, acquiring All-Star right-hander Dan Haren from Diamondbacks.

Contador sips champagne, Armstrong aims to slip away as Tour de France ends in Paris

Celebration, departures and a new era on the Tour

PARIS – The Tour de France ended in celebration, with winner Alberto Contador sipping champagne as he rode into the French capital and Mark Cavendish raising his hands in triumph as he once again claimed a stage victory on the Champs-Elysees.
Lance Armstrong finished with a final chance … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Contador sips champagne, Armstrong aims to slip away as Tour de France ends in Paris.

When a meteorite struck cricket pitch in UK county match

LONDON – A meteorite crashed on a cricket pitch during a county match in the UK.

Two spectators standing on the boundary spotted the meteorite hurtling down from the sky.

Jan Marszel and Richard Haynes were the first ones to witness an extremely rare meteor strike.

The five-inch long rock, believed to be up to 4.5 …. Original article  : When a meteorite struck cricket pitch in UK county match.

Mani slams PCB over lack of effort to restore international matches in Pak

LONDON – Former International Cricket Council (ICC) President Ehsan Mani has accused the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of dragging its feet in the bid to restore international matches to the country.

Leading cricket teams have refused to visit Pakistan following the 2009 attack on the Sri Lanka national cricket team in Lahore, which killed eight people, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mani slams PCB over lack of effort to restore international matches in Pak.

Ponting not in favour of changes in Oz batting line up for India tour

SYDNEY – Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has said that the prospect of changes to the team’s batting line-up for October’s Test tour of India is remote.

Only Simon Katich (46.75) and Michael Clarke (34.75) had a batting average above 30 in the two-Test series against Pakistan. The worst averages among the specialist batsmen were …. Original article  : Ponting not in favour of changes in Oz batting line up for India tour.

Playing in India is big test for Oz players: Katich

SYDNEY – Opener Simon Katich has said that the Australian team faces a big challenge in the upcoming Test series against World No.1 India, as several newcomers in the team are yet to play senior cricket in the subcontinent.

Katich and paceman Doug Bollinger on Monday returned home after the drawn two-Test series against …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Playing in India is big test for Oz players: Katich.

England selectors stick with Morgan, overlook in form Bopara for Test against Pak

LONDON – England’s selectors have decided to retain one-day star Eion Morgan in the squad for the first Test against Pakistan to be played at Trent Bridge from Thursday, overlooking in-form Essex batsman Ravi Bopara.

Bopara hit two centuries in his last county match, but one-day star Morgan has been given another chance to establish himself [..] Read the original article: here.

Lunch scoreboard: India vs. Sri Lanka, Day 1, Second Test

COLOMBO – The following is the scoreboard at lunch on the first day of the second cricket Test match between India and Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club here Monday.
Sri Lanka 1st innings:
Tharanga Paranavitana batting 45
Tillekaratne Dilshan c Laxman b Ojha 54
Kumar Sangakkara batting 18
Extras (b 4, lb …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lunch scoreboard: India vs. Sri Lanka, Day 1, Second Test.

Sunil Chhetri Excited To Play ManU

KANSAS CITY (GaeaTimes.com)- The country is waiting in anticipation to watch the football game between the Kansas City Wizards and Manchester United which took place at the New Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City yesterday evening. This time though India is not waiting to watch the likes of Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs kick the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sunil Chhetri Excited To Play ManU.

Sergio Kindle To Miss Team Training

AUSTIN (Gaeatimes.com)- The Baltimore Ravens rookie linebacker Sergio Kindle who was picked by the team during the April draft season has suffered a fatal fall and is at present recuperating at an Austin hospital. The player suffered head injury on Thursday at a private house in Austin. He reportedly fell from two flights of …. Source article  : Sergio Kindle To Miss Team Training.

Sri Lanka make 128/1 at lunch

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka made 128 for one in the first innings at lunch against India on the first day of the second Test match at the Sinhalese Sports Club here Monday.

Opener Tharanga Pranavitana was batting on 45 and skipper Kumar Sangakkara 18. Tillekaratne Dishan made 54.
…. Read the original article  : Sri Lanka make 128/1 at lunch.

Steve Zakuani scores 2 11 minutes apart in Seattle’s 2-1 win over Colorado

Zakuani’s 2 goals lift Sounders past Rapids, 2-1

SEATTLE – Steve Zakuani twice in the first half and the Seattle Sounders FC won for the first time at home since June 5, 2-1 over the Colorado Rapids on Sunday night.
In the eighth minute, Zakuani gathered a deflected ball inside the penalty area and shot it between … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Steve Zakuani scores 2 11 minutes apart in Seattle’s 2-1 win over Colorado.

Sri Lanka opt to bat as India miss Yuvraj, Gambhir

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara won the toss and opted to bat against India in the second Test match of the three-match series at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground here Monday.
India is missing key batsmen Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir due to fever and knee injury. Sri Lanka is also missing … Read more >>.

May-Treanor and Branagh win in Long Beach, Dalhausser and Rogers win 5th straight event

May-Treanor and Branagh win in Long Beach
LONG BEACH, Calif. – Misty May-Treanor and Nicole Branagh won the AVP Tour event in Long Beach for their second tour win this season.

Phil Dalhausser and Todd Rogers won for the fifth tournament in a row, beating No. 2 seed Sean Scott and John Hyden in the men’s final … Read more : May-Treanor and Branagh win in Long Beach, Dalhausser and Rogers win 5th straight event.

Tea scoreboard: India vs. Sri Lanka, Day 2, Second Test

COLOMBO – The following is the scoreboard at tea on the second day of the second cricket Test match between India and Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club here Tuesday.
Sri Lanka 1st innings (Overnight 312/2):
Tharanga Paranavitana b Sharma 100
Tillekaratne Dilshan c Laxman b Ojha 54
Kumar Sangakkara … Read more >>>.

Young Pak team can beat England in Test series: Mohsin

Lahore, Jul 27 (ANI): Pakistan’s chief selector Mohsin Khan hopes, the young cricket team that secured victory against Australia at Leeds, could beat England in the coming Test series.

“The English team will have the advantage of home conditions, and their batsmen are technically sound on their own pitches. Pakistan players will have to perform …. Source article  : Young Pak team can beat England in Test series: Mohsin.

Pak team management asks ‘flop’ Akmal brothers to perform

Islamabad, Jul 27 (ANI): The form of the Akmal brothers, Kamran and Umar, who have so far failed to live up to their billing, is worrying the Pakistani camp.

The Pakistani team management has advised the Akmal brothers to improve their performances in the series against England in order to secure their places in the team.

Umar’s … Read more »».

Sangakkara, Jayawardene take Sri Lanka to 587/3

COLOMBO – Skipper Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene took Sri Lanka to 587 for three in the first innings against India at tea on the second day of the second cricket Test here Tuesday.

Jayawardene was batting on 143 and Thilan Samareweera 52 when tea was called at the Sinhalese Sports Club. Sangakkara made 219.
…. Source article  : Sangakkara, Jayawardene take Sri Lanka to 587/3.

Court asks government not to interfere in Hockey India election

NEW DELHI – Holding that Hockey India is a private body, the Delhi High Court Tuesday asked the central government not to interfere in HI elections slated to be held July 28.

The court also asked the government to withdraw its observer appointed to monitor the Hockey India elections.
It further ruled that the Indian Hockey …. Read the original article  : Court asks government not to interfere in Hockey India election.

Now, Stosur pulls out of Commonwealth Games

SYDNEY – Australian tennis player Samantha Stosur Tuesday joined the growing list of top athletes to pull out of the Oct 3-14 Commonwealth Games in Delhi.
The world no.5 would have been the top seed at the Games, where tennis was featuring for the first time.
The reasons behind Stosur’s pull out are … Original article on : Now, Stosur pulls out of Commonwealth Games.

Russia’s Emelyanov edges Schwazer to win men’s 20k walk and 1st gold at Euro Championships

Russia’s Emelyanov wins men’s 20k walk at Euros

BARCELONA, Spain – Stanislav Emelyanov of Russia claimed the first gold medal of the European Championships on Tuesday after winning the men’s 20-kilometer walk final.
Emelyanov won the event along the streets of Barcelona in a time of 1 hour, 20 minutes, 10 seconds. Alex Schwazer of Italy finished … Original article on : Russia’s Emelyanov edges Schwazer to win men’s 20k walk and 1st gold at Euro Championships.

Shillong ensemble wins three golds at choir Olympics

SHILLONG – A Shillong ensemble has won what are perhaps India’s first golds at a choir Olympics, claiming three of the medals at the sixth edition of the event at Shaoxing in China.

The 16-member Shillong Chamber Choir won the golds Monday night in three categories of music – scared, gospel and spiritual and popular Choral … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Shillong ensemble wins three golds at choir Olympics.

BJP, Aiyar embarrass government on CWG

NEW DELHI – The Commonwealth Games had the government in an embarrassing corner Tuesday with not just the BJP asserting that it would raise project delays in parliament but also its own MP Mani Shankar Aiyar declaring that he would be happy if the “Games are spoilt”.

“We will raise the issue of the delays …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘If Capello had asked me to join England squad, I would have’, says Scholes

LONDON – Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has revealed his regret over rejecting overtures for an England comeback at the World Cup in South Africa.

He said that had Fabio Capello made the offer instead of his No.2, Franco Baldini, he might have joined the team.

According to The Telegraph, Scholes believes the call should have come … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘If Capello had asked me to join England squad, I would have’, says Scholes.

Neutral Tests in UK at risk following 750 K pound loss from Pak-Oz clash

LONDON – Questions are being raised about the feasibility of England hosting neutral Test matches after the poor spectator turnout for the Pakistan-Australia match at Headingley resulted in 750,000 pounds in losses last week.

An intensive marketing campaign focused on Yorkshire’s large Asian population failed to deliver with crowds of only 4,000 on the first two [..] Read the original article: here.

Becks’ tattooist launches T-Shirt designs

LONDON – The man behind David Beckham’s tattoos has stepped into the fashion world by launching a new range of T-shirts.

And now, Fans of Becks, 35, can buy limited edition items featuring one of his body art designs by Manchester-based Lou Molloy.

Two of the tees feature the famous “guardian angel” found on Becks’ back, depicting … Read more : Becks’ tattooist launches T-Shirt designs.

England series will be ‘real’ test for young Pak team: Akram

KARACHI – Former Pakistani skipper Wasim Akram feels that the upcoming series against England will be the ‘real’ test for Salman Butt’s young team.

Pakistan face England in the first of the four Tests at Trent Bridge starting Thursday.

Speaking to ESPN from London on Monday, Akram said: “Facing England at home will be a tough … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : England series will be ‘real’ test for young Pak team: Akram.

New Zealand Cricket CEO regrets Howard’s nomination

WELLINGTON – New Zealand Cricket CEO Justin Vaughan has said had he known what the International Cricket Council ’s (ICC) view would be on the nomination of former Australian Prime Minister John Howard for the ICC vice presidency, New Zealand Cricket may not have supported Howard’s candidature.

Howard, jointly nominated by New Zealand and Australia, was … Read more »».

Glenn McGrath, fiancee planning Italian wedding?

MELBOURNE – Glenn McGrath and fiancee Sara Leonardi are leaning towards an Italian wedding, according to sources.

Sources say that Leonardi is eyeing a traditional Italian ceremony and McGrath, too, is keen to take the nuptials offshore in an effort to minimize the media hysteria around the event.

“Sara has a lot of friends in South Africa …. Read the original article  : Glenn McGrath, fiancee planning Italian wedding?.

Austin race promoters set to unveil track site for return of Formula One’s US Grand Prix

Austin race promoters set to unveil F1 track site

AUSTIN, Texas – Race promoters are set to reveal the Austin-area site of the track to be built for the return of Formula One racing to the United States.
Race promoters have scheduled a Tuesday news conference in Austin to talk about the track and the U.S. Grand …. Source article  : Austin race promoters set to unveil track site for return of Formula One’s US Grand Prix.

Sangakkara double ton takes Sri Lanka to 457/2 (Lunch Report)

COLOMBO – Skipper Kumar Sangakkara struck his seventh double ton to power Sri Lanka to a mammoth 457 for two in the first innings against India at lunch on the second day of the second cricket Test here Tuesday.
Sangakkara was batting on 214 and Mahela Jayawardene on 71 as Sri Lanka added 145 …. Original source  : Sangakkara double ton takes Sri Lanka to 457/2 (Lunch Report).

Gulbis, Schuettler win opening matches at Farmers Classic in Los Angeles

Gulbis, Schuettler open with wins in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES – Ernests Gulbis won his first match in two months, while the hottest player on the ATP Tour withdrew from the Farmers Classic tennis tournament at UCLA on Monday.
Gulbis beat Lukas Lacko of Slovakia 7-5, 7-5, and he was joined in the second round by Janko …. Source  : Gulbis, Schuettler win opening matches at Farmers Classic in Los Angeles.

Butt happy with teammates offering advice ahead of England series

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s new Test skipper Salman Butt is happy that his teammates keep offering him advice during their forthcoming series against England as it will help in building a united team.

Salman, in his first match as captain, led Pakistan to a three-wicket Test win against Australia at Headingley on Saturday, ending a record [..] Read the original article: here.

BJP to raise CWG delays in parliament

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said Tuesday it would raise in parliament the delays in projects for the upcoming Commonwealth Games that have raised global concern.

“We will raise the issue of the delays in preparation for the Commonwealth Games in parliament,” BJP spokesperson Prakash Javadekar told reporters outside parliament.
“It is … Read more »»».

Darryl Stingly Tribute Video Gets Viral over the Web

OAKLAND (GaeaTimes.com) — With the death of Jack Tatum, former Oakland Raider, a video clip showing the “freak accident” between him and Darryl Stingly in 1978, is spreading like wildfire over the net.
The hit video shows how Jack “The Assassin” gave a severe hit to Stingly on the field of a pre-season game. The hit … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Darryl Stingly Tribute Video Gets Viral over the Web.

Arafat becomes second bowler to reach 100 T20-wicket milestone

LONDON – Pakistan all-rounder Yasir Arafat became the second bowler to take 100 Twenty20 wickets when he picked up four wickets playing for Sussex against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge.

The other bowler to hit the century mark in the Twenty20 format is Australia’s Dirk Nannes.

Despite the feat, Arafat had mixed emotions as the Friends Provident …. Original source  : Arafat becomes second bowler to reach 100 T20-wicket milestone.

Kiwi athletics body chief says lots of value in ’second tier’ CW Games

WELLINGTON – The Commonwealth Games may rate as a second-tier competition when it comes to athletics, but there is no doubting the value of this year’s event in New Delhi, said Athletics New Zealand high performance director Kevin Ankrom.

“New Zealanders will probably always see the Commonwealth Games as a major event, but in reality …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kiwi athletics body chief says lots of value in ’second tier’ CW Games.

Pakistan won’t recall Abbas for Commonwealth Games

KARACHI – Sohail Abbas, Pakistan’s record-breaking hockey player, will not feature in October’s Commonwealth Games (CWG) in New Delhi as the country’s hockey bosses have decided against including the veteran player in the national team.

A top Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) official said Wednesday that Abbas will not be invited for the preparatory camp for the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan won’t recall Abbas for Commonwealth Games.

Tevez urges Torres to join Man City

LONDON – Ace striker Carlos Tevez has urged Fernando Torres to join him at Manchester City, after coach Roberto Mancini admitted that he wants to sign the Liverpool striker.

Tevez said: “Torres would definitely make us better. He’s one of the top strikers in the world and I would love to have him as a …. Original article  : Tevez urges Torres to join Man City.

Stadia work up to mark: Gill

NEW DELHI – Work on 13 stadia being built for the Commonwealth Games and which are under the central government is satisfactory and up to the mark, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister M.S. Gill said Wednesday.

“There are no shortcomings in the 13 stadiums that are under the sports department. Some stadiums are under the Delhi …. Read the original article  : Stadia work up to mark: Gill.

Olympic champ Kaniskina leads Russian sweep of women’s 20K walk at European Championships

Kaniskina leads Russian sweep of Euros 20K walk

BARCELONA, Spain – Olga Kaniskina won gold in the women’s 20-kilometer walk at the European Championships, leading a Russian sweep of the medals in Wednesday’s event.
The Olympic champion made up for a silver performance four years ago with a season’s best time of 1 hour, 27 minutes, 44 …. Read the original article  : here.

Cricketers back ‘Not In My Game’ campaign to fight against terrorism

LONDON – A group of cricketers, including former Pakistan spinner-turned England spin-bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed, have lent their support to an anti-terror campaign ‘Not In My Game’ to fight against the menace.

The aim of the campaign is to encourage cricket fans around the world to make clear that incidents such as last year’s terror attack … Read : Cricketers back ‘Not In My Game’ campaign to fight against terrorism.

‘England are better than Australia’, says Salman Butt

LONDON – Pakistan captain Salman Butt has rated the England team as relatively better opponents than the Australians.

Butt said that the series against England will be a lot tougher, and every player will have to raise the level of his game.

“I think England are better than Australia. Each member of their team knows what is …. Read the original article  : ‘England are better than Australia’, says Salman Butt.

England will show no fear against Pakistan: Broad

LONDON – Fast bowler Stuart Broad has said that England would see the upcoming Test series against Pakistan as a challenging assignment and a preparatory for this year’s Ashes series Down Under.

In an article for the Daily Mail, Broad said: “It will be quite a challenge. I am making such a late start to my … Read more >>.

Shane Warne steps in as Liz Hurley’s ‘date’ at horse race event

MELBOURNE – Liz Hurley and Shane Warne were an unusual sight together, when seen at the Glorious Goodwood race meet yesterday.

Warne was filling in for Hurley’s husband and Indian textile heir Arun Nayar, who was not to be seen around.

Hurley, who has just entered into owning thoroughbred racehorses, may have been getting some betting tips … Read more »»».

Spinners put India on backfoot (Lunch Report)

COLOMBO – Debutant spinner Suraj Randiv picked up two wickets, including the prized scalp of Virender Sehwag, to reduce India to 173 for three in the first innings, in reply to Sri Lanka’s 642 for four declared at lunch on the third day of the second cricket Test match here Wednesday.
Sehwag missed a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Spinners put India on backfoot (Lunch Report).

Barcelona’s bid to lure Fabregas hit by financial debt stumbling block

LONDON – The financial problems for new Barcelona president Sandro Rosell may mean that they will have to finally give up on getting Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas

A new audit into the Spanish giants’ finances showed they made a loss of more than 64.36 million pounds last season.

The club’s bid to lure Fabregas hit another stumbling …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Barcelona’s bid to lure Fabregas hit by financial debt stumbling block.

Collingwood eyeing Pak Test series as platform for Ashes success

LONDON – England batsman Paul Collingwood believes that his team can use their forthcoming series against Pakistan as a springboard for Ashes success in Australia later this year.

England will play four Tests against Pakistan, with the first match starting on Thursday at Trent Bridge.

“It would be silly to have full concentration on the Ashes, (but …. Source article  : Collingwood eyeing Pak Test series as platform for Ashes success.

Man U’s new signing Hernandez delighted to play alongside club heroes

LONDON – Manchester United new signing Javier Hernandez, who was used to playing his club heroes before this week on a PlayStation console, will now play with them in reality.

Hernandez said: “To play with people like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes will be incredible for me. I have only ever played with them on my …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

PCB seeks Govt. approval to submit report over 2009 Sri Lankan team terror attack

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sought the government’s approval to forward a high-level review over last year’s terror attack on the Sri Lankan team to the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Leading cricket teams have refused to visit Pakistan following the 2009 attack on the team in Lahore, which killed eight people, as well … Read more »»».

Tribute to Grover Cleveland Alexander

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Grover Cleveland Alexander was an American Professional Baseball pitcher. The player was born on February 26, 1887 and passed away on November 4, 1950. He played in Major League Baseball for the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs and St. louis Cardinals. He was elected into the prestigious Baseball Hall of Fame …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tribute to Grover Cleveland Alexander.

Pak pace trio can put England on back foot: Sarfraz

KARACHI – Former Test pacer Sarfraz Nawaz feels Pakistan can only think of a victory against England if its bowlers give devastating performance.

“Pakistani pace attack is very devastating right now. They have been in good form and hopefully they would remain in form and fit. We only won the Test match against Australia because … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pak pace trio can put England on back foot: Sarfraz.

Andy Murray splits with coach Maclagan over Corretja’s role

LONDON – Britain’s No.1 tennis player Andy Murray has split with his coach Miles Maclagan after a disagreement over the role of coaching consultant Alex Corretja, who was originally brought in to advise Murray on how to improve his clay-court game.

The three men were finding it difficult to work together, according to sources inside the … Read more : Andy Murray splits with coach Maclagan over Corretja’s role.

Collingwood scoffs at ‘overrated’ Pak bowling attack

LOUGHBOROUGH – England middle-order batsman Paul Collingwood has described the Pakistan bowling attack as overrated and added that reports describing its potency are “way over the top”.

He said Australia’s bowlers were still the world’s best.

“I think they (Pakistan’s bowlers) have got a lot of talent, but to say they are the number one pace attack … Read : Collingwood scoffs at ‘overrated’ Pak bowling attack.

Australia set to host 2015 Asian Cup football finals

SYDNEY – Australia is set to host the 2015 Asian Cup finals after presenting its bid to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) at a meeting in Kuala Lumpur Thursday.

Australia is the only contender for the 16th edition of the competition.
AFC president Mohamed bin Hammam received the bid book from Football Federation of Australia (FFA) …. Source  : Australia set to host 2015 Asian Cup football finals.

Maradona hits back, says he was cheated and lied to

BUENOS AIRES – Diego Maradona broke his silence Thursday, a day after he was sacked as Argentina’s national coach, saying he was betrayed and lied to.

In a scathing attack, he said that the chief of the Argentine football association (AFA), Julio Grondona, and co-coach Carlos Bilardo lied to him and cheated him. He made a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maradona hits back, says he was cheated and lied to.

Dubutant Raina hits century as India avoid follow-on (Lunch Report)

COLOMBO – Test debutant Suresh Raina struck a century and was involved in a 236-run partnership with Sachin Tendulkar as India averted a follow-on in the second cricket Test against Sri Lanka here Thursday. At lunch on the fourth day, India were 477 for four in their first innings, in reply to the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Dubutant Raina hits century as India avoid follow-on (Lunch Report).

Akram says ‘knee-jerk’ reactions bane of Pak cricket

LAHORE – Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has called for stability in the national team, and urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to stick with newly-appointed skipper Salman Butt.

“Shahid Afridi was appointed for a year and out of the blue he disappeared after one Test. That was a joke,” Wasim wrote in an article … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Akram says ‘knee-jerk’ reactions bane of Pak cricket.

New proposal to revolutionise Test cricket championship

SYDNEY – A new proposal under consideration is all set to revolutionise Test cricket, with the two best nations to play a grand final possibly over six days or, even until there is a result.

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland is confident his ICC counterparts will take their first steps towards a points-based system since …. Source article  : New proposal to revolutionise Test cricket championship.

Indian, Lankan cricketers pay homage to late Lankan star C.I. Gunasekara

COLOMBO – Indian and Sri Lankan cricketers taking part in the second cricket Test being played here, paid tribute and homage to former All Ceylon Cricketer Conroy Ievers Gunasekara, better known as C.I Gunasekara, who passed away today. He was 90.

Players from both sides observed two minutes silence shortly after lunch on the fourth day …. Source article  : Indian, Lankan cricketers pay homage to late Lankan star C.I. Gunasekara.

Maradona accuses Argentine football association of ‘lying, betraying’

LONDON – After losing his job as Argentina’s football coach, Diego Maradona has accused Argentina Football Association president Julio Grondona of ‘lying’ and team manager Carlos Bilardo of ‘betraying’.

The Argentine FA declined to renew his contract in the wake of the 4-0 World Cup quarterfinal defeat by Germany.

“Grondona lied to me. Bilardo betrayed … Read : Maradona accuses Argentine football association of ‘lying, betraying’.

Should White Sox Trade Back Scott Podsednik?

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com) – Scoot Podsednik is now a Major League Baseball outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Did White Sox have done a great mistake by trading Scoot Podsednik to Dodgers?
White Sox is now on a dilemma whether to bring back Scoot Podsednik or not. The big positive attribute of Scoot Podsednik is …. Original source  : Should White Sox Trade Back Scott Podsednik?.

Jhonny Peralta Goes To Detroit Tigers

ST. PETERSBURG (GaeaTimes.com)- The Cleveland Indians on Wednesday traded its veteran third baseman Jhonny Peralta to the Detroit Tigers that provided them with a minor league left-hander player Giovanni Soto. The trade was carried out by the Detroit Tigers in an attempt to bring some respite to its injury-ridden team which has some of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Jhonny Peralta Goes To Detroit Tigers.

Lunch scoreboard: India vs. Sri Lanka, Day 4, Second Test

COLOMBO – The following is the scoreboard at lunch on the fourth day of the second cricket Test match between India and Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club here Thursday.
Sri Lanka 1st innings: 642 for four declared
India 1st innings (overnight 382/4)
Murali Vijay lbw Mendis 58
Virender Sehwag st …. Original article  : Lunch scoreboard: India vs. Sri Lanka, Day 4, Second Test.

Raiders sign first-round pick Rolando McClain hours before start of first practice

Raiders sign first-round pick Rolando McClain

NAPA, Calif. – The Oakland Raiders signed first-round pick Rolando McClain to a contract late Wednesday night, hours before the start of their first training camp practice.
McClain, the eighth overall pick in April’s draft, is just the third first-round pick to sign a contract and the highest overall pick to …. Original source  : Raiders sign first-round pick Rolando McClain hours before start of first practice.

Debutant Raina hits ton as India makes 477/4

COLOMBO – Suresh Raina scored a century on debut as India avoided a follow on and scored 477 for four in the first innings, in reply to Sri Lanka’s 642 for four declared, at lunch on the fourth day of the second cricket Test here Thursday.
Raina was unbeaten on 112 and Sachin Tendulkar …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Debutant Raina hits ton as India makes 477/4.

Memphis Regrets the Loss of Lorenzen Wright

MEMPHIS (GaeaTimes.com) – The death of Memphis famous basketball player, Lorenzen Wright is still a mystery. Wright’s body was found in the dense forest of south-east Memphis on Wednesday afternoon.
Memphis fans are in a state of shock at the sudden loss of the great sports person. According to reports, Lorenzen represented the city of Memphis. …. Source  : Memphis Regrets the Loss of Lorenzen Wright.

Manchested United Wins 5-2 in MLS ALL Star Game

HOUSTON, TEXAS(GaeaTimes) — Manchester United Scored 5 times in the the MLS All Star game. This was the final match of the club’s North American pre-season tour. The charismatic Italian mid-fielder Fedrico Macheda opened the score for Manchester United within 23 seconds.
Fedrico Macheda scored once again within 13 minutes to increase the lead to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Manchested United Wins 5-2 in MLS ALL Star Game.

Manchester United Takes On MLA All Star’s Tonight

HOUSTON (GaeaTimes.com) — The Red Devils are all set to take on MLS All Star opposition at Reliant Stadium in Houston (8:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2 and TeleFutura).
In an interview, MLS Commissioner Don Garber said
Manchester United are among the most recognized and successful clubs in the world, and we are pleased to have them compete … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Manchester United Takes On MLA All Star’s Tonight.

Cricket Australia board to meet to consider Howard’s ICC nomination

MELBOURNE – Cricket Australia has summoned 14 of its board members to Melbourne tomorrow to decide on former prime minister John Howard’s nomination to the International Cricket Council.

Howard’s nomination for the ICC vice-presidency was blocked by a strong alliance of Asian and African nations at an ICC board meeting in Singapore in June.

CA must … Read more >>>.

Injured Shahzad ruled out of Trent Bridge Test against Pakistan

LONDON – England fast bowler Ajmal Shahzad has been ruled out of the first Test against Pakistan, starting at Trent Bridge here on Thursday, due to an ankle injury.

Shahzad suffered the injury when he twisted his left ankle while playing for Yorkshire in a 40-over match last Monday. He has been replaced by fellow Yorkshire … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Injured Shahzad ruled out of Trent Bridge Test against Pakistan.

Lorenzen Wright Dies At 34

MEMPHIS (GaeaTimes.com)- Former American basketball player Lorenzen Wright’s body has been found in a wooded area in southeast Memphis yesterday. The ex-NBA player’s uncle Curtis Wright officially confirmed the news to the media. The former NBA player has been missing since last week and his family appealed for his appearance by filing a … Read more : Lorenzen Wright Dies At 34.

India-Pakistan shadow boxing /(Article)

NEW DELHI – India and Pakistan have gone through another round of shadow boxing, which they call steps towards a dialogue, to sort out differences between the two countries on a host of issues.

Though the talks ended in a stalemate, with the two countries blaming each other for the deadlock, they are set to … Original article on : India-Pakistan shadow boxing /(Article).

Padres get 1st win in 5 games against Dodgers at Petco Park, 6-1

Padres finally beat Dodgers at Petco Park, 6-1

SAN DIEGO – Jerry Hairston Jr. drove in three runs and five San Diego pitchers retired the final 19 batters, leading the NL West-leading Padres to a 6-1 win over the rival Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday night.
The Padres beat the Dodgers for the first time in five …. Original article  : Padres get 1st win in 5 games against Dodgers at Petco Park, 6-1.

‘I’ve still got a lot to learn’ says Morgan

Trent Bridge (Nottingham, UK),J – England middle-order batsman Eoin Morgan says that he still has a lot to learn in silencing most doubters with a stunning maiden Test century in only his third match.

Morgan scored an unbeaten 125 on the first day of the first Test against Pakistan here, helping his team to a formidable …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘I’ve still got a lot to learn’ says Morgan.

Aditya carries India’s hope in world junior squash

QUITO – Aditya Jagtap carried India’s hopes into the quarterfinal stage of the World Junior Men’s Squash Championships here.

Also joining him Thursday were five Egyptians and one each from Pakistan and England.
Earlier in the day, Jagtap defeated Lance Beddoes from New Zealand and then overcame James Earles from England. The …. Read the original article  : here.

Cricket Australia not to renominate Howard for ICC post, backs Kiwi cricket chief

MELBOURNE – The 14-member executive board of directors of Cricket Australia on Friday decided not to renominate former Australian Prime Minister John Howard for the post of vice-president of the International Cricket Council (ICC), opting instead to back New Zealand Cricket chairman Alan Isaac.

Following the rejection of Howard by the ICC, Cricket Australia and New …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cricket Australia not to renominate Howard for ICC post, backs Kiwi cricket chief.

Sakshi Singh Rawat’s Ranchi Arrival Eagerly Anticipated

RANCHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- While Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s wedding to Sakshi Singh Rawat had gone fairly unnoticed by the media, the neighbors and well wishers of the cricketer were waiting in anticipation for their idol’s arrival to Ranchi from Dehradun, so that they may also take part in the celebrations. Reports from Ranchi … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sakshi Singh Rawat’s Ranchi Arrival Eagerly Anticipated.

India thrash Desportivo Monsanto 6-2 on Portugal tour

NEW DELHI – The Indian football team thrashed Desportivo Monsanto 6-2 at Pilado in their second practice match in Portugal.

According to information received here, Mohammed Rafi scored a brace, while Anthony Pereira, Renedy Singh, Clifford Miranda and Abhishek Yadav scored a goal each in Thursday’s match.
India made two changes in the starting line-up … Read more : India thrash Desportivo Monsanto 6-2 on Portugal tour.

Travis Pastrana Bags His 7th Gold Medal in Moto X Freestyle

LOS ANGELS (GaeaTimes.com) — Travis Pastrana has bagged yet another Free style Gold Medal. This is Pastrana’s seventh haul. Pastrana was awarded his 7th Moto X Freestyle gold medal on Thursday night at Los Angeles. He won his forth medal in 2003 at the same place.

Pastrana was leading right from the beginning. His … Read more »»».

Hamilton says he has no deal to pull aside to help teammates

LONDON – McLaren ace Lewis Hamilton has said that he does not expect to be in the position where he has to accept team orders to pull aside for a teammate like Ferrari rival Felipe Massa did for Fernando Alonso during last Sunday’s German Grand Prix in Hockenheim.

“I don’t think at any stage of the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hamilton says he has no deal to pull aside to help teammates.

Robinho begs Manchester City to let him quit

LONDON – Brazilian football star Robinho is reported to have begged Manchester City to let him quit Eastlands.

The 32.5-million-pound played his final loan game for Santos this week.

Now, according to The Sun, the 26-year-old striker will ask City boss Roberto Mancini to allow him to make his switch to the Samba club permanent.

He said: …. Source  : Robinho begs Manchester City to let him quit.

Matt Capps Moves to Minnesota Twins

MINNESOTA (GaeaTimes.com) — Matt Capps is all set to move over to Minnesota Twins this season. The Washington Nationals have traded him in exchange of Wilson Ramos on late Thursday night.
The Nationals included $500,000 in the deal and will receive left-handed relief pitcher Joe Testa, who was demoted from Class AA New Britain to Class … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Matt Capps Moves to Minnesota Twins.

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

COLOMBO – The following is the scoreboard at lunch on the final day of the second cricket Test match between India and Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club here Friday.
Sri Lanka 1st innings: 642 for four declared
India 1st innings (overnight 669/9)
Murali Vijay lbw Mendis 58
Virender Sehwag …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Person familiar with situation: Former Oregon QB Masoli invited to visit Ole Miss this weekend

AP source: Masoli invited to visit Ole Miss

A person familiar with the situation says Mississippi coach Houston Nutt has invited former Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli to visit campus this weekend.
Masoli is expected to decide by Friday morning whether he’ll visit Oxford. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because Masoli has …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sri Lanka make 19/0 at lunch

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka were 19 for no loss in the second innings at lunch, after bowling out India for 707 in the first innings, on the final day of the second cricket Test here Friday.

Openers Tharanga Pranavitana was batting on six and Tillekaratne Dilshan on five. Sri Lanka declatred their first innings at 642 [..] Read the original article: here.

Murray, Lopez, Blake win, Gulbis upset at Farmers Classic in Los Angeles

Murray, Lopez, Blake win 2nd-round matches in LA
LOS ANGELES – Andy Murray had to go the distance in his Los Angeles debut, beating American qualifier Tim Smyczek 6-1, 4-6, 6-2 on Thursday night in a second-round match at the Farmers Classic.
The top-seeded Scot received a wild-card into the event after world No. 2 … Original source on Gaea Times at : Murray, Lopez, Blake win, Gulbis upset at Farmers Classic in Los Angeles.

Former Raptors star Bosh says he always played hard while with Toronto

Bosh says he always played hard with Raptors

TORONTO – After being called out as a quitter by his former general manager, Chris Bosh says he “put his heart and soul” into the Toronto Raptors organization and never gave up on his team.
In an interview on Rogers Sportsnet on Thursday night, Bosh responded to allegations made … Read more »»».

NASCAR’s Stewart makes successful return to North Dakota dirt track

Stewart returns to North Dakota
WEST FARGO, N.D. – NASCAR star Tony Stewart made his return to North Dakota – and failed to cross the finish line.

The two-time Sprint Cup champion was felled by a flat tire midway through the 35-lap All Star Circuit of Champions sprint feature Thursday at the Red River Valley Speedway. He … Read more : NASCAR’s Stewart makes successful return to North Dakota dirt track.

Marion Bartoli, Maria Sharapova advance to Bank of West quarterfinals

Bartoli, Sharapova reach quarterfinals
STANFORD, Calif. – Marion Bartoli, Maria Sharapova and Victoria Azarenka advanced to the quarterfinals of the Bank of the West Classic.
Shahar Peer, another seeded player, wasn’t as fortunate Thursday
The fourth-seeded Bartoli beat former world No. 1 Ana Ivanovic, 6-3, 6-4, for her eighth consecutive victory at the event and 10th … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Marion Bartoli, Maria Sharapova advance to Bank of West quarterfinals.

Ty Wigginton’s sac fly leads Orioles to 6-5 win over Royals in 11 innings

Wigginton’s sac fly leads Orioles to win in 11

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Ty Wigginton’s sacrifice fly in the 11th inning broke the game’s final tie and the Baltimore Orioles beat the Kansas City Royals 6-5 on Thursday night to snap a five-game losing streak.
Corey Patterson homered with two outs in the eighth off Kansas City’s …. Read the original article  : Ty Wigginton’s sac fly leads Orioles to 6-5 win over Royals in 11 innings.

Orioles 6, Royals 5, 11 innings,

Orioles 6, Royals 5, 11 innings,

Baltimore

Kansas City

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6 2 2 0

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Markks rf …. Original source  : Orioles 6, Royals 5, 11 innings,.

As Twins surge after break, front office has same if-it-makes-sense approach to trade deadline

Surging Twins approach trade deadline usual way
MINNEAPOLIS – The All-Star break was a welcomed rest for the Minnesota Twins. It was also quite the revival.
They’re only 14 games into the second half, but by outscoring their opponents 97-50 and going 10-4 they’ve rediscovered their energy and confidence even if the success was perhaps … Read more : As Twins surge after break, front office has same if-it-makes-sense approach to trade deadline.

No. 600 eludes Alex Rodriguez, whose three RBIs help Yankees beat Indians 11-4

A-Rod has three RBIs, but no No. 600 in Yanks win

CLEVELAND – Alex Rodriguez drove in three runs without hitting his 600th homer and the New York Yankees used a seven-run seventh inning to beat the Cleveland Indians 11-4 Thursday night.
Dustin Moseley (1-0) won his first start, allowing a run and four hits over six …. Original source  : No. 600 eludes Alex Rodriguez, whose three RBIs help Yankees beat Indians 11-4.

CWG organising committee asked to explain delays, deals

NEW DELHI – Cabinet Secretary K.M. Chandrasekhar is understood to have asked the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee to submit details about the delays in the completion of games projects, cost overruns and deals that have attracted adverse media attention, even as a report of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) about suspected irregularities hit headlines in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : CWG organising committee asked to explain delays, deals.

Hard man Rio Ferdinand goes soft, admits to being secret McFly fan

LONDON – Manchester United football star Rio Ferdinand has ruined his hard man image by admitting he is a secret McFly fan.

According to The Sun, the England football captain posted a snap of himself singing along to the boyband’s hit Star Girl on his Twitter page.

Rio, 31, went online to share the photo with … Original article on : Hard man Rio Ferdinand goes soft, admits to being secret McFly fan.

nderson says his fiver did make for a good birthday celebration

Trent Bridge (Nottingham, UK),J – England fast bowler James Anderson at present looks the best swing bowler in the world, and he said that his five wickets for 49 runs against Pakistan in the first Test between the two sides being played here, did make for a good birthday celebration with his team mates.

Anderson, who … Read more >>.

Indian origin Ponzi king dupes investors of 115 million pounds

LONDON – An Indian origin businessman has been charged for spearheading Britain’s biggest Ponzi fraud, cheating investors, including a former England cricketer, of 115-million-pounds.

According to the Daily Express, Kautilya Nandan Pruthi’s victims include former England cricketer Darren Gough, singer Jerome Flynn and other celebrities.

Gough is a former winner of TV’s Strictly Come Dancing talent … Original article on : Indian origin Ponzi king dupes investors of 115 million pounds.

Pak Sports Ministry says no request by PCB to clear Sri Lankan team terror attack report

LAHORE – The Pakistan Sports Ministry has said that it has not received any report from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over last year’s terror attack on the Sri Lankan team in Lahore.

“As far as I know they had sent us a report on the sad incident, but that was sometime back and it … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pak Sports Ministry says no request by PCB to clear Sri Lankan team terror attack report.

Button vows to quit Formula One if team orders are brought back

LONDON – World motor racing champion Jenson Button has vowed to quit Formula One if team orders are brought back.

Button said that he would walk away from his eight million pound deal over the issue that has split the sport. he Sun quoted him as saying: “I’d not be interested in racing in F1 …. Source  : Button vows to quit Formula One if team orders are brought back.

Paris Rosen Crashes in Moto X 16

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com) — Paris Rosen, who rose to super stardom by posting a viral Motorbike stunt video in You Tube has been involved in a horrific crash.
Paris Rosen was seen last night crashing into the ground after attempting a Front-Flip. He was taken to a nearby hospital for immediate medical attention. His manager …. Read the original article  : here.

Kyle Loza Shows Off his Moto X Best Trick Move

NEW YORK (Gaeatimes.com) — It seems that Kyle Loza will take the Gold Medal for the fourth time at the Moto X Best Trick. With Blake “Bilko” leaving the game after a shoulder injury, the first position for Kyle Loza seems obvious. There is no chance for Blake “Bilko” to return back to the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kyle Loza Shows Off his Moto X Best Trick Move.

N. Korean football coach sacked, could be executed

LONDON – North Korea World Cup coach Kim Jong-hun has been sacked, publicly ridiculed, expelled from the Worker’s Party and made a construction labourer after his team failed to do well in South Africa.

He has also been accused of betraying General Kim Jong-un, the shadowy son of North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-il, raising fears that …. Read the original article  : here.

Brazilian goalie charged with ex-girlfriend’s murder

LONDON – Brazilian goalkeeper Bruno Souza has been charged with the murder of his 25-year-old ex-girlfriend Eliza Samudio. He reportedly fathered her four-month-old baby.

According to The Telegraph, Samudio’s body is yet to be found, but the police has wrapped up an initial phase of their investigation by saying that Souza masterminded her murder. …. Original source  : Brazilian goalie charged with ex-girlfriend’s murder.

Roy Oswalt’s debut with Philly a dud; Lance Berkman headed to Yankees as trade deadline nears

Oswalt’s Philly debut a dud; Berkman headed to NYY

Roy Oswalt’s debut with the Philadelphia Phillies was a dud. Maybe ex-teammate Lance Berkman will make a better first impression for the New York Yankees.
On another busy day of wheeling and dealing leading up to baseball’s trade deadline, the Chicago White Sox added pitcher Edwin Jackson, and … Read : Roy Oswalt’s debut with Philly a dud; Lance Berkman headed to Yankees as trade deadline nears.

ICC VP nominee Isaac may win Asian vote for supporting IPL window creation in FTP

SYDNEY – Cricket Australia and New Zealand Cricket’s nominee for the ICC vice-presidency, Alan Isaac, has come out in support of creating windows for the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the Future Tours Program (FTP), which could improve his chances of securing the post with the help of the Asian Bloc.

According to the Sydney Morning …. Original source  : ICC VP nominee Isaac may win Asian vote for supporting IPL window creation in FTP.

Sharapova outlasts Dementieva in 3 sets; Azarenka beats defending champion Bartoli

Sharapova, Azarenka win quarterfinals matches
STANFORD, Calif. – Maria Sharapova outlasted fellow Russian Elena Dementieva, 6-4, 2-6, 6-3, in a match Friday night that lasted 2 hours, 47 minutes in the quarterfinals of the Bank of the Classic.
The fifth-seeded Sharapova improved to 6-3 against top 10 competition since returning from shoulder surgery last May. …. Read the original article  : Sharapova outlasts Dementieva in 3 sets; Azarenka beats defending champion Bartoli.

Watch Chivas vs Manchester United Game Streaming Online

GUADALJARA, MEXICO (GaeaTimes.com) – The soccer fans now have enough reasons to cheer. Now they can watch Chivas vs Manchester United Soccer Live streaming online. Manchester United, the world’s most famous soccer team came to Guadaljara in Mexico on 30th July for the inauguration of the new omnilife stadium, Estadio Chivas.
As a part of the … Read more : Watch Chivas vs Manchester United Game Streaming Online.

New York Yankees Acquires Austin Kearns From Cleveland Indians

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Austin Kearns will now be fielding for the Yankees. With the trade deadline closing down on them, the Yankees completed the deal last night. Today 4 p.m. (local time) happens to be the closing hour to trade players outside Major League Baseball’s waiver system. Post the deadline, players are allowed …. Read the original article  : New York Yankees Acquires Austin Kearns From Cleveland Indians.

Shaun White Looses to Gangon in X Games Final

LOS Angeles (GaeaTimes.com) — Nokia Theater stood stunned, as Pierre-Luc Gagnon was able to come from behind to beat Shaun White. Shaun White returned to X Games after a long time and posted two of the biggest scores in the skateboard vert final with his first two runs. Pierre-Luc Gagnon fell in each of …. Source  : Shaun White Looses to Gangon in X Games Final.

Sam Bradford Signs a Contract of $78 Million with New York Jets

NEW YORK (Gaeatimes.com) — Rams rookie Sam Bradford, signed a contract of $78 Million with New York Jets for a 6 Year deal. It is worth $50 Million in guarantees. Bradford has made a record by signing the highest single contract in the League’s history.
The New York Jets have signed in their new coach, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sam Bradford Signs a Contract of $78 Million with New York Jets.

Lance Berkman To Join New York Yankees

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- At the age of 34 and recording a career low last season, Lance Berkman still has got something that is driving the New York Yankees to go for him. As per reports, the New York Yankees have agreed to a trade with the Houston Astros under which they would acquire switch-hitter …. Original source  : Lance Berkman To Join New York Yankees.

Ryan’s infield hit gives Cardinals’ 1-0, 10-inning victory over Pirates

Cardinals beat Pirates 1-0 in 10 innings
ST. LOUIS – Brendan Ryan’s broken-bat infield hit in the 10th inning drove in the game’s lone run and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 1-0 on Friday night.

Chris Carpenter allowed five hits over eight innings for the Cardinals, who have won eight of nine at home … Read more : Ryan’s infield hit gives Cardinals’ 1-0, 10-inning victory over Pirates.

Cardinals 1, Pirates 0, 10 innings,

Cardinals 1, Pirates 0, 10 innings,

Pittsburgh

St. Louis

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Tabata lf … Read more >>.