Sports News – Weekly Newsletter for November 1-8, 2010

Monday, November 8, 2010

Ronaldo reckons he is simply phenomenal

LONDON – After netting twice for Real Madrid in a match against Hercules, Portuguese football star believes that he is simply phenomenal.

Ronaldo has taken his tally to 10 goals in four League games and 3 goals in nine games in all competitions.

“I am in phenomenal shape and on a great run of form. I come … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ronaldo reckons he is simply phenomenal.

Rooney throws Disney-themed ???90K bash for son’s first birthday

LONDON – Wayne Rooney’s teammates reportedly thronged to a party thrown by the striker yesterday for his son Kai’s first birthday.

Beaming defender Wes Brown, 31, midfielder Michael Carrick, 29, and Manchester United skipper Nemanja Vidic, 29, were among a posse from the club who braved the rain to take their children to the Disney-themed 90,000 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rooney is a troubled soul: Fergie

LONDON – Manchester United coach Alex Ferguson believes his star striker Wayne Rooney has been a troubled soul.

Rooney has gone from Player of the Year to a flop for England and Manchester United and a figure of shame for his reported dalliance with a prostitute, The Sun reports.

Ferguson said: “I don’t know the reason for …. Source article  : Rooney is a troubled soul: Fergie.

Ashes: If Siddle performs, Aussies can thank Melbourne’s Carlton football club

MELBOURNE – If a fit and primed Victorian fast bowler Peter Siddle slices through England this summer, Australia can thank an Olympic cyclist and the Carlton Football Club in Melbourne for regaining the Ashes.

The fast bowler, who has not played Test cricket since January because of stress fractures in his back, spent almost three …. Source article  : Ashes: If Siddle performs, Aussies can thank Melbourne’s Carlton football club.

Ashes: England sends frontline bowling attack to Brisbane to acclimatize

PERTH/BRISBANE – England has sent their frontline bowlers to Brisbane to acclimatise for the first Ashes Test at the Gabba.

This is a radical Ashes strategy. The bowlers were earlier scheduled to go to Tasmania for the final tour game in the lead-up to the first Test.

According to Fox Sports, England’s brains trust appears reluctant …. Read the original article  : Ashes: England sends frontline bowling attack to Brisbane to acclimatize.

Pressure piling on North, Hussey to deliver before Ashes

SYDNEY – The Sheffield Shield failures of West Australian veterans Mike Hussey and Marcus North has heightened and intensified speculation about what the Australian middle-order is going to be for the Ashes.

A day after Test challenger Callum Ferguson blasted 129 from 143 for South Australia, a performance which drew praise from national coach Tim Nielsen, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pressure piling on North, Hussey to deliver before Ashes.

Brett Favre Is Recovering His Chin Injury

PROVIDENCE, (GaeaTimes.com)- It has been a bad week for the Minnesota Quarterback Brett Favre. First, he fractured both his ankles and yet decided to play in the Sunday’s match against New England Patriots. Even in that game, his chin was badly hit by Patriots defensive lineman Myron Pryorm, midway through the fourth quarter of the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brett Favre Is Recovering His Chin Injury.

Youth cricket bodies in Australia to be centralized following adverse report

SYDNEY – Bodies governing youth cricket in Australia will be centralised after a damning report forced Cricket Australia to completely re-evaluate its structure and revenue streams.

A discussion paper, revealed yesterday in The Sun-Herald, showed huge declines in player participation and television audiences for the game.

In the past decade, it said, ratings had fallen 24 …. Original article  : Youth cricket bodies in Australia to be centralized following adverse report.

Pak ‘not the crowd-pullers of world cricket anymore’: Sohail

ISLAMABAD – Former Pakistan captain Aamir Sohail reckons that the national team is no more the ‘crowd-pullers’ in world cricket, which he believes is the reason behind top international teams’ refusal to visit the country.

“Pakistan cricket team have always been ranked amongst the top three or four teams in the world, but they do … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pak ‘not the crowd-pullers of world cricket anymore’: Sohail.

PCB governing council to decide on full-time batting coach

LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)’s Governing Council will meet today to decide if a full-time batting coach is needed for the national team.

“The matter will be deliberated upon and then it will be decided if we need to appoint a specialist batting coach with the team,” the Daily Times quoted PCB Chief Operating … Read this article on Gaea Times at : PCB governing council to decide on full-time batting coach.

Newcastle crush Sunderland, Liverpool out of relegation zone

LONDON – Kevin Nolan scored a hat-trick as Newcastle United hammered Sunderland 5-1 while Liverpool moved out of the relegation zone by beating Bolton in the English Premier League Sunday.

Two goals from Nolan and a Shola Ameobi penalty had Newcastle 3-0 up by half-time of the Premier League match, and any slender chance of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Newcastle crush Sunderland, Liverpool out of relegation zone.

Westwood new world No. One as Kaymer falters in Spain

BERLIN – Lee Westwood must have known by Saturday that come Sunday he would top the world golf rankings, taking over from American super-star Tiger Woods.

For 281 weeks in a row (and a total of 623 weeks) the American has been at the pinnacle of the golfing world, but a horrid time since revelations … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Westwood new world No. One as Kaymer falters in Spain.

Leaders Lazio snatch fifth straight win in Serie A

ROME – Lazio remained at the top of the Italian Serie A Sunday, winning 1-0 at Palermo although they ended the lunch-time match with 10 men.

Brazilian defender Andre Dias ventured into Palermo’s area in the 27th minute to volley home the winner for the Rome club.
“We have 22 points, we are obtaining very … Read : Leaders Lazio snatch fifth straight win in Serie A.

Sahara Sports Awards 2010: A Star-Studded Event

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Sahara India Sports Awards 2010 which was held over the weekend in Mumbai turned out to be a glittering event with the who’s who of the world of sports as well as entertainment gracing the occasion. A number of sports-personalities from different fields were honored at the gala ceremony … Original article on : Sahara Sports Awards 2010: A Star-Studded Event.

Pakistan Vs South Africa: Abdul Razzaq Sizzles

ABU DHABI, UAE (GaeaTimes.com)- Abdul Razzaq smashed one of the finest centuries in recent years to give Pakistan the series equalizer that never looked probable. Set a target of 287 to win by South Africa, the Pakistan innings never looked in the hunt till the middle order batsman created a miracle that included …. Read the original article  : here.

Mixed reactions in Pak over ICC’s decision to uphold Butt, Amir suspensions

LAHORE – Former Pakistan cricketers and officials have voiced mixed reactions over the International Cricket Council (ICC)’s decision to uphold the suspensions of Salman Butt and Mohammad Amir over their alleged involvement in a ’spot-fixing’ scandal.

Butt, Amir and Mohammad Asif were suspended in September after a British tabloid claimed that the trio were involved in …. Source article  : Mixed reactions in Pak over ICC’s decision to uphold Butt, Amir suspensions.

Razzaq powers Pak to amazing one-wicket victory over South Africa

ABU DHABI – Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq played an innings of sheer class to lead Pakistan to a morale-boosting one-wicket win over South Africa in the second ODI at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Cricket Stadium.

Razzaq scored an unbeaten 109 off 72 balls, as Pakistan reached 289 for nine with one ball left in reply to South …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Razzaq powers Pak to amazing one-wicket victory over South Africa.

Ashes 2010: Cook confident of England win against ‘humbled’ Australia

PERTH – England opener Alastair Cook has expressed confidence about his team’s chances of defending The Ashes Down Under in the wake of Australia losing the first of its two Twenty20 internationals against Sri Lanka on Sunday.

Australia was humbled conclusively by seven wickets with 21 balls remaining..

“As a side we’re in far better place,” … Read more »»».

Ashes run-up: Hussey, North fail again

PERTH – Western Australian batsmen Michael Hussey endured a first-ball failure while his skipper Marcus North fell for 10 on Sunday against South Australia in Adelaide, suggesting that the road to Ashes team selection could become difficult for both.

Both exited to cavalier strokeplay against unheralded left-arm spinner Aaron O’Brien.

National team coach Tim Nielsen rated South …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Keen tussle expected in opening round of Ranji Trophy

MUMBAI – The Ranji Trophy, beginning Monday, will see some keen tussles in the first round with two-time defending champions Mumbai taking on Saurashtra in the Elite Group Super League here.

Mumbai beat Karnataka in a thrilling final last year to claim a record 39th Ranji Trophy title.
But the champion team will have …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Keen tussle expected in opening round of Ranji Trophy.

Bid for CWG was secretive, hasty: RTI query

NEW DELHI – The decision to bid for the just concluded 19th Commonwealth Games (CWG) was taken secretively and hurriedly before the then youth affairs and sports minister Vikram Verma left for an overseas trip in May 2003, a right to information (RTI) query has revealed.

The RTI plea was filed by Housing and Land …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bid for CWG was secretive, hasty: RTI query.

Sir Jackie Stewart: I was millimetres away from a life of violence

EDINBURGH – Racing legend Sir Jackie Stewart has admitted he was “millimetres” away from a life of crime because of crippling dyslexia which, even today, leaves him unable to fill in a drivers’ licence application form.

The Formula One star, originally from Dumbarton, yesterday admitted he still struggles with the learning difficulty.

Speaking in Edinburgh’s Central Library … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sir Jackie Stewart: I was millimetres away from a life of violence.

Melbourne ODI could be marred by Cup, bad weather, poor Oz player form

MELBOURNE – The Melbourne Cup, bad weather and the poor form of the Australian cricketers will have cricket officials nervous before Wednesday’s one-dayer at the MCG.

The crowd figure is likely to be low as Australia try to end their international losing streak when they host Sri Lanka at the start of a three-match series.

According to …. Read the original article  : Melbourne ODI could be marred by Cup, bad weather, poor Oz player form.

CA boss Sutherland says big-name stars will front new-look Big Bash

MELBOURNE – Cricket Australia boss James Sutherland has said the country’s biggest names may not be free to play in the format’s first season, but are expected to join the revolution beyond its 2011-12 debut.

Sutherland also declared big-name signings from around the globe a priority.

“Australian players probably won’t be available in the first stage but … Original source on Gaea Times at : CA boss Sutherland says big-name stars will front new-look Big Bash.

Lehmann backs Ferguson to make Test grade

SYDNEY – Former Test batsman Darren Lehmann says that rising South Australian batsman Callum Ferguson wouldn’t disappoint if he was called up by Australia for this summer’s Ashes.

Ferguson struck a well-made 129 of a 140-od balls in a Sheffield Shield clash against Western Australia at Adelaide Oval on Sunday.

Lehmann, who played 27 Tests, said 25-year-old … Original article on : Lehmann backs Ferguson to make Test grade.

I’m not a casualty of Bangladesh debacle, says resigned Kiwi cricket GM Allott

AUCKLAND – New Zealand Cricket’s General Manager Geoff Allott has said that he has not resigned from his post over the Black Caps’ recent embarrassing 0-4 ODI series loss to Bangladesh.I appreciate the connection that will be made timing-wise. I’m not a casualty. I think it came as a surprise to Justin [Chief Executive Justin .... Original article  : I’m not a casualty of Bangladesh debacle, says resigned Kiwi cricket GM Allott.

Prior has cemented his place as England's top keeper

PERTH - Matt Prior has cemented his place as England’s No 1 wicketkeeper with a number of impressive displays.

Being a world-class keeper and decent batsman is not enough for England, as the outstanding Essex wicketkeeper James Foster has discovered.

Keepers must aspire, unlike the specialist batsman or bowler, to be a master of all trades. .... Source  : Prior has cemented his place as England’s top keeper.

Curator says green top 'possible' again for Ashes opener at the Gabba

BRISBANE - Gabba curator Kevin Mitchell has said that it is quite possible to create a green top agains for the first Ashes Test against England, which begins from November 25.

He was speaking after Queensland suffered an humiliating Sheffield Shield loss on Monday.

Queensland lost 18-131 within two sessions on Monday as a Mark Cameron-inspired New .... Source article  : Curator says green top ‘possible’ again for Ashes opener at the Gabba.

Federer advances easily at home as opponent retires hurt

BASEL - Top seed Roger Federer reached the second round of Swiss Indoors tennis as opponent Aleksandr Dolgopolov was unable to finish after rolling an ankle in a 6-4, 5-2, 15-15 loss.

Federer, a three-time champion at the event where he got his start in the game as a teenaged ballboy, was serving for .... Original article on Gaea Times at  : Federer advances easily at home as opponent retires hurt.

Federer to start 2011 in Abu Dhabi with Nadal

BASEL - Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal will begin their 2011 season campaigns at the Abu Dhabi exhibition tennis that the Spaniard won last January.

Federer, competing this week at his home Swiss Indoors, will line up alongside his world number one Spanish rival in the Gulf for the third time in as many years.
.... Source article  : Federer to start 2011 in Abu Dhabi with Nadal.

Aussies to use ODI series against Lankans to repair dented confidence

MELBOURNE - Australia will attempt to use their upcoming three-game one-day cricket series against Sri Lanka to rebuild their dented confidence ahead of this summer’s Ashes series.

Having lost to the Lankans in Perth on Sunday night, the fourth straight defeat in the T20 format, Australia take on Sri Lanka in the 50-over format at the .... Source article  : Aussies to use ODI series against Lankans to repair dented confidence.

England will thrive on Aussie taunts during Ashes series: Broad

PERTH - Right-arm fast bowler Stuart Broad has said that he and his other England team-mates will thrive on any Australian taunts that come their way during the Ashes.

Declaring that the visitors have nothing to fear despite their woeful record Down Under, the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Broad, as saying: “I’d expect the Aussies to .... Read the original article  : England will thrive on Aussie taunts during Ashes series: Broad.

Not interested in being used for fixing Oz middle order malaise: Watson

SYDNEY - Australian opener Shane Watson has said that he does not want to be used as a fix for Australia’s middle-order malaise.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Watson has told senior figures within the Australian set-up that he sees his future as an opener, but stressed he had not been asked to move to ... Read more >>>.

Hauritz still sees need for spinner at 'green top' Gabba

SYDNEY - Australian off-spinner Nathan Hauritz remains convinced that the selectors will opt for a spinner in the first Ashes Test against England to be played at the Gabba in Brisbane from November 25 despite yesterday’s pace onslaught on a Gabba green top that yielded 29 of 30 wickets for the quicks.

Hauritz, the stand-in New ... Read more >>>.

England will strive for perfect balance during Ashes: Broad

BRISBANE - Right-arm fast bowler Stuart Broad has said England will strive for the perfect balance between work and play during the Ashes tour

After two days in Australia, Andrew Strauss’s team has undertaken two training sessions, the first gentle, the second thorough. Both were complemented, for about half the squad, by afternoon visits to ... Original source on Gaea Times at : England will strive for perfect balance during Ashes: Broad.

PCB chief Butt says Test batsmen who need coaching don't deserve to be selected

LAHORE - Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ijaz Butt has said that he is not in favour of appointing a full-time batting coach for the national team.

Butt’s comment comes after PCB’s Governing Council met on Monday to decide if a batting coach was needed for the team or not.

“When a player (batsman) comes .... Original article on Gaea Times at  : PCB chief Butt says Test batsmen who need coaching don’t deserve to be selected.

Smith feels for 'home game' deprived Pak fans

DUBAI - South African skipper Graeme Smith has said that he feels for Pakistani cricket fans who have been deprived of watching action on their grounds because of security fears.

Leading cricket teams have refused to visit Pakistan following last year’s terrorist attack on the Sri Lanka team bus, which has forced the Pakistan Cricket Board ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Smith feels for ‘home game’ deprived Pak fans.

"Ashes-just a 'warm-up' before 2011 Test series against 'champs' India," jibes Michael Vaughan

LONDON - Former England captain Michael Vaughan has ribbed the Aussies by saying that the Ashes are a “warm-up” before the 2011 Test series against India.

“This winter is looking like being a warm-up for next summer when we will play the number one team India,” he tweeted.

According to Fox News, overcome with excitement at the ... Read : “Ashes-just a ‘warm-up’ before 2011 Test series against ‘champs’ India,” jibes Michael Vaughan.

Suspended Butt, Amir accuse ICC of 'conspiracy to defame Pakistan cricket'

LAHORE - Suspended Pakistan Test captain Salman Butt and Mohammad Amir have accused the International Cricket Council (ICC) of having an anti-Pakistan agenda after their suspensions for alleged ’spot-fixing’ were upheld.

The ICC’s code of conduct commission, headed by Michael Beloff, upheld the suspensions of Butt, Amir and teammate Mohammad Asif on Sunday after a two-day ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Suspended Butt, Amir accuse ICC of ‘conspiracy to defame Pakistan cricket’.

Ponting to skip first Lanka ODI to attend grandmother's funeral

MELBOURNE - Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has decided to skip Wednesday’s opening ODI against Sri Lanka at the Melbourne Cricket Ground to attend his grandmother’s funeral.

Ponting said that he would travel to his home town of Launceston in Tasmania for his grandmother’s funeral following her death last weekend.

“I will be flying out tomorrow morning .... Read the original article  : Ponting to skip first Lanka ODI to attend grandmother’s funeral.

Prior calls on England to focus on their game in Australia

PERTH - Wicketkeeper-batsman Matt Prior has said that England would focus on building intensity through its skills, bowling and fielding.

“I don’t think we need to say too much or get into a war of words with anyone,” Sky Sports quoted Prior, as saying ahead of the Ashes series.

The ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Prior calls on England to focus on their game in Australia.

Ponting offers hope to Queensland all-rounder Hopes

MELBOURNE - Dropped Australian all-rounder James Hopes has received support from captain Rick Ponting ahead of next February’s cricket World Cup.

“James has been a very valuable member of our one-day setup for the last three or four years now,” the Sydney Morning ... Read more »»».

Lyon, Inter Milan lose, Barcelona held to draw

BERLIN - Olympique Lyon and Inter Milan Tuesday failed to secure their early progress in Champions League football as they slumped to defeats, while Barcelona drew in Copenhagen to be denied an early place in the knock-out stage.

Although there are two round of group matches outstanding, Lyon and Inter would have secured their place .... Source article  : Lyon, Inter Milan lose, Barcelona held to draw.

Tottenham manager escapes punishment over referee comments

LONDON - Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp received a warning but no punishment by the Football Association for his comments about referee Mark Clattenburg following his side’s defeat against Manchester United last weekend.

Redknapp described the decision to allow a goal by Nani to stand as “a farce” and said the referee and officials had colluded ... Read : Tottenham manager escapes punishment over referee comments.

Sharapova feels "spoiled" with 250K dlrs engagement ring

WASHINGTON - Maria Sharapova has admitted that she feels spoiled to receive a 250,000-dollar engagement ring from her fiance/Los Angeles Laker Sasha Vujacic.

“He completely surprised me! I’m so lucky and very much spoiled,” UsMagazine.com quoted Sharapova as saying at Monday’s Ace Awards at Cipriani 42nd Street in NYC.

“It was ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sharapova feels “spoiled” with 250K dlrs engagement ring.

Interim coach Batista named permanent successor to Maradona

BUENOS AIRES - - Sergio Batista, who has been interim coach of Argentina’s national team since the post-World Cup departure of Diego Maradona, was named the permanent coach Tuesday by the Argentine football federation (AFA.

A member of the 1986 world championship team alongside the legendary Maradona, Batista, 47, will prepare the Argentine side for ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Interim coach Batista named permanent successor to Maradona.

Gold medallist jailed for bribing his way to Asian Games

HONG KONG - Hong Kong bodybuilder Chan Yan-to has been jailed for 16 months after being found guilty of bribing his way into the 2006 Asian Games where he won gold, a news report said Wednesday.

Chan, 44, had been banned from competing for two years after failing a drug test the previous year.
... Original source on Gaea Times at : Gold medallist jailed for bribing his way to Asian Games.

Vettori backs UDRS but system won't be used during India tour

AHMEDABAD - New Zealand cricket captain Daniel Vettori has thrown his weight behind the use of the Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS), insisting “it is good for the game”.

The system, however, will not be used in the upcoming ... Original article on : Vettori backs UDRS but system won’t be used during India tour.

Loss to Bangladesh no reason to take Kiwis lightly, says Harbhajan

NEW DELHI - Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that New Zealand team should not be “taken lightly” ahead of a three-test match series starting on Thursday, just because they lost to Bangladesh.

“It was a little shocking to see New Zealand go down to ... Read more >>.

Ashes: Hilditch, Chappell differ on Oz Test XI composition

MELBOURNE - National Selection Panel chairman Andrew Hilditch and new panel member Greg Chappell reportedly have differing views on the composition of the Australian Test XI for the forthcoming Ashes series.

Australia’s four selectors are to meet in two weeks time to decide ... Read : Ashes: Hilditch, Chappell differ on Oz Test XI composition.

Amir confident of ICC clean chit over 'spot-fixing' charges after full hearing

ISLAMABAD - Suspended Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Amir is confident that he would come out clean in the ’spot-fixing’ hearing being conducted by the International Cricket Council (ICC)’s code of conduct commission.

Amir, Test captain Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif, were suspended in ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Amir confident of ICC clean chit over ’spot-fixing’ charges after full hearing.

Gilani to press for PCB chief Ijaz Butt's dismissal with Zardari

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has said that he would discuss the deteriorating situation of cricket in the country with President and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) patron Asif Ali Zardari.

The government is reportedly under tremendous pressure to sack PCB Chairman ... Original article on : Gilani to press for PCB chief Ijaz Butt’s dismissal with Zardari.

McGrath tips Australia to win Ashes series 5-0

SYDNEY - Fast-bowling great Glenn McGrath has again tipped Australia to regain the Ashes with a 5-0 whitewash agaisnt England.

“I couldn’t have more faith in the boys. We had a Twenty20 loss to Sri Lanka on Sunday, but those matches are unpredictable. ... Read more »»».

Ponting backs under-pressure Hussey to come good in Ashes

SYDNEY - Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting has backed under-pressure batsman Mike Hussey to regain form for the Ashes starting on November 25 in Brisbane, and also endorsed him to stay with the one-day side, despite making a golden duck and three in Western Australia’s ... Original article on : Ponting backs under-pressure Hussey to come good in Ashes.

Vettori says facing a top team on their home turf is the toughest challenge

AHMEDABAD - New Zealand cricket team captain Daniel Vettori has said facing a top team like India on their home turf is the toughest challenge.

“It’s the toughest challenge, to face the top team in their own conditions,” The Age quoted Vettori, as saying.

“The talent and success they (India) have is .... Original source  : Vettori says facing a top team on their home turf is the toughest challenge.

'Spot-fixing' scam diverted attention from possible 'home games': Butt

LAHORE - Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ijaz Butt has said that the tour of England ’spot-fixing’ scam has ruined the country’s chances of holding ‘home games’.

Leading cricket teams have refused to visit Pakistan following last year’s terrorist attack on the Sri Lanka team bus, which has ... Read more >>.

Ashes: Aussies will err if they leave out 'Mr.Cricket' Hussey, says Arthur

MELBOURNE - Former South African cricket team coach and now coach with Western Australia, Mickey Arthur has said Australia would be “wrong” if they failed to select out-of-form batsman Mike Hussey for the first Ashes Test against England.

Hussey has scored just two Test centuries since the start ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ashes: Aussies will err if they leave out ‘Mr.Cricket’ Hussey, says Arthur.

Leander Paes On 'KBC'

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Indian tennis ace Leander Paes is all set to appear on the ‘Diwali’ special episode of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ and with the spoilers doing the rounds on the web, it is evident that the sports star is a die hard fan of the Big B. Leander Paes and a number of .... Source article on Gaea Times at  : Leander Paes On ‘KBC’.

Ex-Proteas opener Gibbs was a loner, claims Coach Arthur

MELBOURNE - Former South African cricket team coach Mickey Arthur has described opener Herschelle Gibbs as somewhat of a loner after he criticised the power set-up under him.

Reacting to comments in Gibbs controversial autobiography that said current South African captain Graeme Smith was afforded too much power .... Source article  : Ex-Proteas opener Gibbs was a loner, claims Coach Arthur.

South Africa defeat Pakistan by two runs in third ODI in Dubai

DUBAI - A fighting century by opening Hashim Amla and a four-wicket spell by fast bowler Morne Morkel helped South Africa pull off a narrow two-run win over Pakistan in the third one-day international played here on Tuesday night.

Pakistan scored 226 for the loss of nine wickets and the ... Read more >>>.

England will use build-up matches to harden minds, bodies for Ashes: Strauss

PERTH - Captain Andrew Strauss has said England will play their build-up matches like Tests to harden their minds and bodies for The Ashes.

“The last thing we want to do is approach them like warm-up games. We’re trying to do our preparation as close to a Test match as we can. We want to hit ... Original source on Gaea Times at : England will use build-up matches to harden minds, bodies for Ashes: Strauss.

England's Barmy Army reduced to a battalion in Australia ahead of Ashes

PERTH - England’s Barmy Army will be reduced to a battalion this winter because Australia has become ultra-expensive.

Around 40,000 supporters flew Down Under four years ago when England were thrashed 5-0 in The Ashes, but organisers expect about half that number this time.

According to The Sun, the problem is the strength of the Aussie dollar .... Read the original article  : England’s Barmy Army reduced to a battalion in Australia ahead of Ashes.

Ind vs NZ: India Start Well

AHMEDABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The first test between India and New Zealand is underway and it looks like New Zealand’s hope of making a great comeback after the Bangladesh disaster is a long way off. Standing between the Kiwis and their hope for a return to form is Virender Sehwag. Getting off to a solid .... Original article  : Ind vs NZ: India Start Well.

Punjab pacifies CWG medallists with prize money hike

CHANDIGARH - Facing resentment of players over being payed much lesser amounts than their counterparts in Haryana, the Punjab government Thursday hiked the prize money for the Commonwealth Games medallists from the state.

“Gold medallists will be rewarded with Rs.16 lakh, while silver and bronze medallists will receive Rs.11 lakh and Rs.6 lakh respectively,” an ... Read : Punjab pacifies CWG medallists with prize money hike.

Kirsten gets the 'Wright' stuff for Indian coaching

AHMEDABAD - The Indian cricket team’s South African coach Gary Kirsten credits former New Zealand captain and ex-coach John Wright for providing him with insights on how to approach one of the toughest and most demanding jobs in the game.

Before accepting the post in early 2008, Kirsten pored over “John Wright’s Indian Summers”, a book .... Read the original article  : Kirsten gets the ‘Wright’ stuff for Indian coaching.

Spot-fixing shadow not hampering Pak's performance in South Africa ODI series: Afridi

DUBAI - Pakistan ODI skipper Shahid Afridi has dismissed suggestions that the recent ’spot-fixing’ allegations were behind his team’s poor performance in the ongoing series against South Africa.

Pakistan currently trails the five-match series, being played in the United Arab Emirates, 2-1.

“I don’t think so that the spot-fixing issue has anything to do with our performance. ... Original article on : Spot-fixing shadow not hampering Pak’s performance in South Africa ODI series: Afridi.

Aussies need to start playing cricket to stop speculation of calamity: Roebuck

SYDNEY - Calamity has befallen Australian cricket, and according to columnist Peter Roebuck, Australia needs to start playing cricket to stop the orgy of speculation observed of late.

In a write-up for the Sydney Morning Herald, Roebuck said: “Reporters and captains alike were left scratching their heads as an amazed and boisterous crowd waved a thousand ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Aussies need to start playing cricket to stop speculation of calamity: Roebuck.

Ferguson called into Australia one-day team

SYDNEY - South Australian Callum Ferguson, who scored a blazing century against Western Australian last week, has been called into the Australian one-day squad for the rest of the one-day series with Sri Lanka.

He comes into the squad in place of left-hand batsman Shaun Marsh, who injured his back in Wednesday night’s one-wicket loss to ... Read : Ferguson called into Australia one-day team.

Lalit Modi says has no plans to return to India to answer corruption charges

LONDON - Former IPL Chairman Lalit Modi has stressed at a London conference that he was not hiding, but would not consider returning to India to answer corruption charges.

According to the BBC, during a rare public appearance at the International Sports Event Management Conference in London to discuss the future of Indian sport, Modi, ... Read more »»».

Suspended Pak trio should approach CAS to get spot-fixing clean chit: Sarfraz Nawaz

ISLAMABAD - Former Pakistani bowler Sarfraz Nawaz has urged suspended Test captain Salman Butt, Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif to take their cases to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

The trio were suspended in September after a British tabloid alleged that they were involved in ’spot-fixing’ the Lord’s Test against England in August.

Butt and .... Source article  : Suspended Pak trio should approach CAS to get spot-fixing clean chit: Sarfraz Nawaz.

North denies rumours of replacing Ponting as Test skipper

MELBOURNE - Marcus North has denied speculation about him replacing Ricky Ponting as Australia’s next Test captain.

North, who will captain Western Australia against England in a three-day tour match starting today in Perth, woke up to speculative reports that vice-captain Michael Clarke was unpopular within the team and would not be considered as Pomting’s .... Read the original article  : here.

Oz selectors have put Ashes campaign in jeopardy: Slater

MELBOURNE - Former opener Michael Slater has said the Australian selectors failure to take tough decisions has put the team’s Ashes campaign in serious jeopardy.

He said the selectors were responsible for some monumental blunders, including the retention of out-of-form batsman Mike Hussey.

Slater also further said the selectors’ have become obsessed with sticking with a .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Cricket South Africa to probe revelations in Gibbs autobiography

SYDNEY - The legal team of Cricket South Africa will look into a host of damaging allegations made in a controversial autobiography released by out of form opener Herschelle Gibbs this week.

The veteran opener made several startling revelations in the book entitled “To the Point”, chief among which were his sexual escapades while on tour ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Cricket South Africa to probe revelations in Gibbs autobiography.

Domenech sues French Football Federation over dismissal

PARIS - Raymond Domenech is seeking 2.9 million euros in compensation from the French Football Federation (FFF) following his dismissal as France coach by the FFF, his lawyer confirmed.

Jean-Yves Connesson told L’Equipe newspaper Wednesday that the 58-year-old’s sacking was against French labour law and that his client wanted his rights respected.
Domenech was fired .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bayern, Chelsea win in Champions League, Marseille hit seven

BERLIN - Bayern Munich and Chelsea both booked their places in the knockout phases of the Champions League football with victories but the result of the night was in Slovakia as Olympique Marseille put seven goals past hapless MSK Zilina.

Real Madrid looked to have also assured themselves of a place in the next phase .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sehwag gives India a blistering start (Lunch report)

AHMEDABAD - Virender Sehwag gave India a blistering start against New Zealand as the hosts scored 127 for one at lunch on the opening day of the first cricket Test here Thursday.

Sehwag looked poised for another Test hundred and was batting at 87, and had Rahul Dravid (12 batting) for company. Sehwag’s knock .... Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sehwag gives India a blistering start (Lunch report).

Lunch scoreboard: India vs New Zealand, first Test, Day 1

AHMEDABAD - The following is the lunch scoreboard on the opening day of the first Test between India and New Zealand here Thursday:

India (first innngs):
Gautam Gambhir b Ryder 21
Virender Sehwag batting 87
Rahul Dravid batting 12
Extras: (b-4, lb-1, nb-2) ... Original article on : Lunch scoreboard: India vs New Zealand, first Test, Day 1.

Scandal-hit Rooney to get a Guy Fawkes bonfire greeting

LONDON - A bonfire society has revealed that it plans to give scandal-hit Manchester United star Wayne Rooney a Guy Fawkes bonfire greeting over the weekend.

Rooney has been cast in the form of the animated ogre Shrek. The 49-foot-tall steel-framed structure will go up in flames at Edenbridge Bonfire Society’s annual parade and display on .... Original source  : Scandal-hit Rooney to get a Guy Fawkes bonfire greeting.

ICC asks suspended Pak players to be cautious over statements

LAHORE - The International Cricket Council has directed Pakistan Test captain Salman Butt and fast bowler Mohammad Amir to be cautious in giving statements regarding their suspension over the ’spot-fixing’ scandal.

Amir’s lawyer Shahid Karim said that the ICC response is right, and insisted that the players would ensure that their final hearing is not affected ... Original source on Gaea Times at : ICC asks suspended Pak players to be cautious over statements.

Oz inability to destroy opposing teams a serious issue: Clarke

LONDON - Stand in skipper Michael Clarke has said that inability to destroy opposing teams is becoming a serious issue for the Australian team.

Clarke was at loss of words after Sri Lanka staged one of the great comebacks, setting up a one-wicket win with 34 balls left in their opening one-day international in Melbourne. .... Source  : Oz inability to destroy opposing teams a serious issue: Clarke.

India all out for 487 in first innings

AHMEDABAD - India were all out for 487 in their first innings at tea on the second day of the first cricket Test against New Zealand here Friday.

Harbahajan, who scored 69, was the last Indian wicket to fall and the break was taken.
Skipper Daniel Vettori, who is playing his 100th Test for .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sparky Anderson Dies At 76

THOUSAND OAKS (GaeaTimes.com)- The world of baseball lost one of its greatest characters on Thursday. After being in hospice care for just about a day, Major League Baseball manager George ‘Sparky’ Anderson breathed his last yesterday at his home in Thousand Oaks in the state of California. The Hall of Famer manager who was .... Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sparky Anderson Dies At 76.

Nalbandian recovery effort continues as Djokovic advances

BASEL - Argentine David Nalbandian continued his steady return from last year’s hip surgery with a 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 defeat of slumping Croatian sixth seed Marin Cilic to reach the quarter-finals of the Swiss Indoors.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic survived a stiff challenge from Finn Jarkko Nieminen 6-4, 7-6(6) to set up a meeting with .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Football managers pace 25 miles a season during games, reveals study

LONDON - A new study has revealed that top Premiership managers cover more than 25 miles a season just pacing up and down during games.

According to research, the most successful managers, competing in the Champions League, FA Cup and Carling Cup ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Football managers pace 25 miles a season during games, reveals study.

Current Pak team not good enough for international cricket: Mudassar Nazar

DUBAI - Former Pakistani opening batsman Mudassar Nazar insists that the recent poor results of the national team reflects that the team is not one of the best outfits in recent times.

Pakistan currently trails the five-match ODI series being played against South Africa in the United Arab Emirates ... Read : Current Pak team not good enough for international cricket: Mudassar Nazar.

ODI call-up not precursor to Ashes berth: Ferguson

SYDNEY - Callum Ferguson, who replaced injured Shaun Marsh in Australia’s limited overs squad, doesn’t consider his ODI call-up a precursor to an Ashes berth.

Downplaying the significance of his one-day selection, Ferguson said: “It’s a different format altogether.”

“One-day cricket is completely different from Test cricket but it’s ... Read this article on Gaea Times at : ODI call-up not precursor to Ashes berth: Ferguson.

Sangakkara wants team to improve after miraculous win over Australia

SYDNEY - Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara wants the team to show considerable improvement after their miraculous one-day cricket win over Australia.

Sri Lamka pulled off one of the all-time great wins at the MCG in front of a sparse crowd that mainly consisted of Lankan fans.

Chasing Australia’s 8-239 at the start of [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Recuperating’ Tanvir dropped from Pak squad for South Africa Test series

LAHORE – Pakistani fast bowler Sohail Tanvir has been dropped from the Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa in the United Arab Emirates.

Tanvir was named in the Test squad announced last month, but the selectors had made it clear that his trip would be subject to fitness, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian Rowing team eyes gold at Asian Games

HYDERABAD – The members of Indian Rowing team have expressed confidence of winning gold in the upcoming Asian Games in China.

Rowing coach Ismail Baig said that the team is confident of giving a much better performance than the last edition of the Games in Doha.

“We are in the last stage for the preparations of the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian Rowing team eyes gold at Asian Games.

North says nothing to hide from England ahead of Ashes

SYDNEY – Marcus North has said it would have been pointless to have withdrawn from today’s tour match against England to deny the tourists a look at him before the Ashes.

Western Australia will go into the match having four players with international experience, although Adam Voges, Luke Ronchi and Luke Pomersbach have only played limited-overs … Original source on Gaea Times at : North says nothing to hide from England ahead of Ashes.

Prior wants England to get into winning habit early on Ashes tour

LONDON – England wicketkeeper Matt Prior has targeted a winning start to inspire a run of success on the challenging tour of Australia.

England plays their first warm-up match on Friday against Western Australia

“Winning is a habit, and the quicker you can get into that habit, the better,” The BBC quoted Prior, as saying.

“First and … Read : Prior wants England to get into winning habit early on Ashes tour.

New Zealand fight back at lunch on day two of Test (Lunch report)

AHMEDABAD – A late three-wicket burst by New Zealand spinners restricted India to 392 for six at lunch on the second day of the first cricket Test here Friday.

India at one stage looked poised to get past the 500-plus total with Sachin Tendulkar and V.V.S. Laxman scoring with ease. But Jeetan Patel (2-102) and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bradman’s iconic ‘backyard cricket’ bats up for grabs

SYDNEY – Legendary cricketer Sir Donald Bradman’s bat used for playing cricket in his backyard will go under hammer on Sunday and is expected to fetch around 15,000 to 20,000 dollars.

Also up for auction on Sunday, and expected to fetch 20,000 to 30,000 dollars is a Sykes Don Bradman bat used by him during the … Read more >>>.

Oz cricket greats back Clarke as Ponting successor

SYDNEY – Former Australian cricket captain and well known commentator Richie Benaud has backed Michael Clarke to succeed Ricky Ponting as Test captain despite reports of dressing room dissent.

“I see no reason why Clarke, the vice-captain shouldn’t take over from Ponting, the captain. Any time a team is getting beaten there are always concerns,” said …. Original source  : Oz cricket greats back Clarke as Ponting successor.

Fifa row may have blown away England’s 2018 World Cup bid chances

LONDON – England’s 2018 World Cup bid has suffered a blow after a British daily investigation into the bidding process, according to a key member of the campaign team.

A member of the Fifa executive committee had previously claimed that there would be no backlash against England.

But it now seems that the Sunday Times …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fifa row may have blown away England’s 2018 World Cup bid chances.

Becks dismisses US citizenship rumours

LONDON – Former England captain David Beckham has dismissed reports that he wants US citizenship, insisting he is still very much an Englishman.

“You may have seen some recent quotes attributed to me. Just to be clear – I’m happy living in America but have no intention of becoming a US citizen,” the Sun quoted …. Original source  : Becks dismisses US citizenship rumours.

Lunch scoreboard: India vs New Zealand, First Test, Day two

AHMEDABAD – Scoreboard at lunch on the second day of the first cricket Test between India and New Zealand here Friday:

India (first innings):
Gautam Gambhir b Ryder 21
Virender Sehwag b Vettori 173
Rahul Dravid b Martin 104
Sachin Tendulkar c & b Patel 40
Read more »».

India 392/6 at lunch on day two

AHMEDABAD – India were 392 for six at lunch on the second day of the first cricket Tests against New Zealand here Friday.

It turned out be a good first session for New Zealand where they picked three wickets for nine runs. Mahendra Singh Dhoni was at the crease and was yet to open …. Source article  : India 392/6 at lunch on day two.

Chirag United down East Bengal to enter final

NEW DELHI – Mohammad Rafique’s late strike handed Chirag United a 1-0 victory over fancied East Bengal and a spot in the final of the Durand Cup football here Thursday.

Rafique’s goal in the 86th minute proved just enough for Chirag United to get past a formidable East Bengal side …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chirag United down East Bengal to enter final.

Tainted Pakistan trio may have to fend for itself

KARACHI – Pakistan’s tainted trio finds itself in deeper trouble following Pakistan Cricket Boards (PCB) decision to suspend their central contracts because of their involvement in a spot-fixing scandal.

Salman Butt, Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif had their central contracts suspended by the PCB with the boards legal adviser, Tafazzul Rizvi saying it was a …. Read the original article  : here.

Tea scoreboard: India vs New Zealand, First Test, Day three

AHMEDABAD – Scoreboard at tea on the third day of the first cricket Test between India and New Zealand here Saturday:

India first innings: 487
New Zealand first innings:
Tim McIntosh c Dhoni b Khan 0
Brendon McCullum st Dhoni b Ojha 65
Bradley-John Watling b Ojha 6
Ross Taylor c Laxman … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tea scoreboard: India vs New Zealand, First Test, Day three.

New Zealand 237/4 at tea on day three

AHMEDABAD – New Zealand were 237 for four at tea in the first cricket Test against India here Saturday.

Jesse Ryder was batting at 53 and Kane Williamson 45 at the break. The visitors still trail India by 250 runs.
The hosts failed to get any wicket in the second session.
…. Read the original article  : here.

Fergie packs struggling Rooney off to US boot camp

LONDON – Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has been packed off by manager Sir Alex Ferguson to America to regain his form.

According to The Sun, the 25-year-old flies to a state-of-the- art fitness centre in Portland today and will spend the next seven days honing his physical condition to the level demanded by his manager.

The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fergie packs struggling Rooney off to US boot camp.

Ex-Oz cricketer Jones calls for two coaches to ensure success

MELBOURNE – Former Australian cricketer Dean Jones has said that it is time for the Australian cricket team to have two separate coaches – one for the Test team and one coach for the one-day and Twenty20 teams.

“The team needs some inspiration and adrenalin and a new coach will provide it. The workload on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ex-Oz cricketer Jones calls for two coaches to ensure success.

Bhupathi-Mirnyi advance, Bopanna-Qureshi lose in Valencia

VALENCIA – India’s Mahesh Bhupathi and Max Mirnyi of Belarus advanced to the men’s doubles semi-finals of the 1,357,000-euro Valencia Open tennis.

Third-seeded Bhupathi-Mirnyi outlasted Frantisek Cermak of the Czech Republic and Michal Mertinak of Slovakia 6-3, 6-7(6), 10-6 and are next up against top seeds Lukasz Kubot of Poland and Oliver Marach … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bhupathi-Mirnyi advance, Bopanna-Qureshi lose in Valencia.

Cricket Australia dismisses concern over low turn out for ODI series

MELBOURNE – Dismissing concerns over poor crowd turn out for one-day series against Sri Lanka, Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland has maintained that one-day cricket was far from dead and still remains most popular among the fans.

Not more than 14,000 fans decided to watch the second ODI between Australian and Sri Lanka at the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cricket Australia dismisses concern over low turn out for ODI series.

KP to sport ’soup-strainer’ moustache in Brisbane Test

PERTH – England star batsman Kevin Pietersen has rekindled one of cricket’s lost arts – the moustache.
e England batsman will go into the first Ashes Test in Brisbane later this month sporting a soup-strainer he has grown for the charity Movember, The Sun reports.
etersen uploaded a picture of his effort on Twitter, with team-mate James … Read more : KP to sport ’soup-strainer’ moustache in Brisbane Test.

Give proof of 2007 SA-Pak Lahore match being fixed or face legal action: PCB to Arthur

KARACHI – Hitting back at former South Africa coach Mickey Arthur over his claims that a 2007 One-day International against Pakistan in Lahore might have been ‘fixed,’ the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked him to either prove his claims or face legal action.

“PCB has noted with concern the statement of former South African coach …. Source article  : Give proof of 2007 SA-Pak Lahore match being fixed or face legal action: PCB to Arthur.

Leading seeds move through into all-star Basel weekend

BASEL – Roger Federer faces longtime US rival Andy Roddick while Serbs Novak Djokovic and Viktor Troicki tune up for the December Davis Cup final as three top-10 players figure in semi-final play at the Swiss Indoors tennis.

Top seed Federer, stripped of his home trophy in 2009 by Djokovic after three consecutive titles, will … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Leading seeds move through into all-star Basel weekend.

Raul brace helps struggling Schalke 04 beat St Pauli

GELSENKIRCHEN – Spanish striker Raul scored a brace as struggling Bundesliga club Schalke 04 achieved only their second league victory of the season when they beat St Pauli 3-0.

Raul scored in each half, while Dutch international Klaas Jan Huntelaar scored the other for a victory that – at least momentarily – lifted last season’s …. Source  : Raul brace helps struggling Schalke 04 beat St Pauli.

Nadal out of Paris Masters with arm tendinitis

PARIS – World number one Rafael Nadal withdrew Friday from next week’s Paris Masters due to tendinitis in his arm, with the Spaniard’s top seeding at the Bercy arena taken by Roger Federer.

The evening release of the draw confirmed the pullout by Nadal, who has not played since losing to Austrian Jurgen Melzer just …. Read the original article  : Nadal out of Paris Masters with arm tendinitis.

Breeders Cup 2010 To Get More Exciting

LOUISVILLE, (GaeaTimes.com)- The Breeders Cup 2010, started yesterday and will end today. Yesterday was a very exciting day with six races, where each of the well prepared horses gave its best performance. However, it was the American horses that were better than the European horses according to their average performances.
In the first race of Breeders … Read : Breeders Cup 2010 To Get More Exciting.

Spinners leave New Zealand tottering at 148/4 lunch (Lunch report)

NEW DELHI – Indian spinners struck twice to reduce New Zealand to 148 for four at lunch on the third day of the first cricket Test here Saturday.

Resuming at 69 for two, the overnight New Zealand pair of Brendon McCullum (65) and Ross Taylor (56) batted with purpose in the morning and runs came …. Source  : Spinners leave New Zealand tottering at 148/4 lunch (Lunch report).

Aussies in trouble, need to change and improve performance: SMH

SYDNEY – While captain Ricky Ponting feels that the Australian cricket team retains its positive frame of mind despite a Twenty20 loss and a one-day series loss to Sri Lanka, the view beyond the dressing room is that the team is in trouble, and is being outplayed by their opponents to frequently to remain in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

We want to become world’s No.1 team, hold Ashes urn for two decades: Broad

SYDNEY – England is not only aiming to retain the Ashes this summer in Australia, but also wants to become the world’s No.1 team and hold on to the coveted urn for another two decades.

Pacer Stuart Broad wants this generation of England players to give Australia back for the humiliation inflicted on their predecessors by …. Original source  : We want to become world’s No.1 team, hold Ashes urn for two decades: Broad.

Soul searching KP is bad news for Australia ahead of Ashes

SYDNEY – England’s star batsman Kevin Pietersen has arrived in Australia with his game in working order and purpose renewed, according to noted columnist Peter Roebuck.

“He comes back not as the frustrated boy out to prove a point but as a committed champion determined to demonstrate that the early period of astonishing achievement was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Soul searching KP is bad news for Australia ahead of Ashes.

English ladies footie team scores 41-nil!

LONDON – English ladies footie team Keynsham Town Ladies Reserves has made history by winning Somerset County Women’s League against Somerton and Langport Ladies by 41 goals.

The stunning victory by Somerset’s Ladies team is believed to be the third biggest in the history of the English women’s game.

“We used the wings, opened up … Original article on : English ladies footie team scores 41-nil!.

Boris Becker ordered to pay wedding minister 1,200 pounds

LONDON – A Swiss court has ordered Boris Becker to pay 1,200 pounds to the pastor who presided over his second wedding to the Dutch model Sharlely Kerssenberg in 2009, as a settlement of a long-running dispute.

Becker, a three-time Wimbledon tennis champion and six-time Grand Slam champion, was also charged 2,257 Swiss francs in legal … Read more : Boris Becker ordered to pay wedding minister 1,200 pounds.

Pak spot-fixing probe gathers pace as ’second evidence file’ passed to Prosecution

LONDON – The probe into allegations that Pakistan cricketers accepted bribes for spot-fixing during the Lord’s Test against England has gathered pace, as a second evidence file was passed to prosecutors on Friday.

Scotland Yard said that evidence that there was a conspiracy to defraud bookmakers will be considered by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), The …. Read the original article  : here.

Aussies require kick on the protector to get out of pre-Ashes stupor

SYDNEY – The Australian cricket teams, despite its lucrative guaranteed contracts, are victims of expectations massively inflated by a generation of great success, and also of their own cricketing bureaucracy, which has blundered with selection and now the Ashes preparation, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.

On Wednesday night, Sri Lanka mounted what was at first …. Original source  : Aussies require kick on the protector to get out of pre-Ashes stupor.

Subcontinental stars gear up for Women’s Indian Open golf

GURGAON – A group of professional golfers of Indian and sub-continental origin will challenge the best of Europe and Asian players here at the Hero Honda Womens Indian open golf.

The tournament will be held Nov 11-13 at the DLF Golf and Country Club.
Some of the names may be familiar but there are some … Original article on : Subcontinental stars gear up for Women’s Indian Open golf.

Tea scoreboard: India vs New Zealand, First Test, Day four

AHMEDABAD – The following is the scoreboard at tea on the fourth day of the first cricket Test between India and New Zealand here Sunday:

India first innings: 487
New Zealand first innings:
Tim McIntosh c Dhoni b Khan 0
Brendon McCullum st Dhoni b Ojha 65
Bradley-John Watling b Ojha 6
…. Read the original article  : here.

Goldikova Wins

LOUISVILLE (GaeaTimes.com)- There was drama on the tracks of Churchill Downs on Saturday as champion racehorse Goldikova stole the show against the boys with her third straight victory in Breeders’ Cup Turf Mile. The 5 year old mare’s French trainer Freddy Head was left speechless by the performance of the mare and who later … Read more >>>.

Lee-Anne scores another top-10, all set for Indian Open

JEJU – South African Lee Anne Pace shot a brilliant six-under 66 on the final day to vault inside the top-10 as she finished tied seventh in the Korea European Ladies Masters Sunday.

Lee-Anne, who is leading the Money List on Ladies European Tour thus extended her lead over seasoned Laura Davies. Lee-Anne won two …. Original source  : Lee-Anne scores another top-10, all set for Indian Open.

India 2/3 in their second innings at tea

AHMEDABAD – India were reeling at two for three in their second innings at tea on the fourth day of the first cricket Test against New Zealand here Sunday.

Sachin Tendulkar was at the crease and was yet to open his account as India led by 30 runs. Earlier, New Zealand were packed off in … Read more »»».

Partnerships helped to strengthen England’s cricket: Andrew Walpole

LONDON – England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) General Manager for media relations, Andrew Walpole, has revealed how the board had revived English cricket in the mid-1990s.

“We had long been the No.1 summer sport, but then we realized we needed to work very hard to maintain that position,” the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Walpole, as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Partnerships helped to strengthen England’s cricket: Andrew Walpole.

Tubby backs Clarke as leader for Australian cricket’s new era

SYDNEY – Former captain and current Cricket Australia board member Mark Taylor has launched a passionate defence of Michael Clarke, saying his mixed perception is the result of a different style of leader presiding over a team in transition at the beginning of a new era in the game.

Taylor, who captained Australia from 1994 to …. Original source  : Tubby backs Clarke as leader for Australian cricket’s new era.

No tour restriction for Australia’s WAGS during Ashes

MELBOURNE – Cricket Australia in stark contrast to England’s policy will allow wives and girlfriends (WAGS) of players more often than ever during the Ashes series.

England has banned WAGS for the first six weeks of the Ashes tour, but the Australian players will be able to have their families stay with them at team accommodation …. Original source  : No tour restriction for Australia’s WAGS during Ashes.

Pietersen not taking struggling Australia lightly

PERTH – English batsman Kevin Pietersen Sunday said he is not bothered about Australia’s current poor run in international cricket and the whole team is busy concentrating on the Ashes preparations.

Australia have lost seven international games in a row. To make matters worse, Ponting and his men suffered their first bilateral home series …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pietersen not taking struggling Australia lightly.

2010 Breeders’ Cup Results Get Exciting

LOUISVILLE (GaeaTimes.com)- 2010 Breeders’ Cup ended yesterday with the most exciting results. They were unpredictable, thrilling and at times, disappointing. This especially holds true for the much awaited final race, Breeders Cup Classic, where Zenyatta was expected to make her third consecutive victory in the race, and the twentieth victory of her career. However, much …. Original source  : 2010 Breeders’ Cup Results Get Exciting.

Breaches can be found in England team’s fortress: Roebuck

SYDNEY – The Andrew Staruss-led England team can be beaten, but Australia will need to be at their best, noted cricket columnist Peter Roebuck has said.

England have arrived Down Under to defend the urn they claimed with a 2-1 success on home soil last year.

“England are not exactly a pack of cards, but they’re not …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Breaches can be found in England team’s fortress: Roebuck.

Bingle opens up about split with Clarke

MELBOURNE – Australia’s skipper Michael Clarke’s former fiancee Lara Bingle spilled the beans about the couple’s break up.

The controversial model opened up about the rumours swirling about her colourful life.

Bingle said she remained friends with Clarke even after their break up.

“The dynamic is still there.We’re the best of friends. Michael and I have amazing chemistry,” …. Read the original article  : here.

McGrath backs Ponting to lead Australia to an Ashes victory

SYDNEY – Australia’s most successful fast bowler Glenn McGrath has backed Ricky Ponting as the man to lead Australia to an Ashes victory, and ridiculed critics of the team’s bowling attack as “hypocritical.”

McGrath further said that his old skipper Ponting was the perfect person to lead Australia’s revival, and described the recent criticism of Ponting [..] Read the original article: here.

Espanyol,Real Sociedad show their mettle in Spanish League

MADRID – Saturday saw Espanyol and Real Sociedad show their credentials to be amongst the top teams in the Spanish football league, with efficient home wins.

Espanyol beat lowly Malaga 1-0, Sociedad downed Racing Santander by the same score.
Espanyol – who have won all five of their home matches – are now fourth, with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Espanyol,Real Sociedad show their mettle in Spanish League.

Zenyatta’s Breeders Cup Defeat Disappoints Many

LOUISVILLE (GaeaTimes.com)- It was a bad day for the most competent horse in Breeders Cup 2010. Zenyatta, who was anticipated to make her third consecutive victory in the Breeders Cup Classic, lost her game to Blame, by just a few inches. Many people who were supporting her, which constituted the majority of the audiences, were …. Source  : Zenyatta’s Breeders Cup Defeat Disappoints Many.

Williamson strikes century on debut (Lunch report)

AHMEDABAD – Kane Williamson struck century on debut as New Zealand cruised to 417 for six at lunch on the fourth day of the first cricket Test against India here Sunday.

The 20-year-old became the youngest of the eight Black Caps to achieve this feat when he flicked Zaheer Khan to fine leg for a …. Original article  : Williamson strikes century on debut (Lunch report).

Unrelenting Eto’o on target to salvage home draw in Serie A

ROME – Serie A top scorer Samuel Eto’o Saturday levelled for champions Inter Milan to salvage a 1-1 home draw against promoted Brescia.

The Cameroon striker scored his eighth goal in 10 games after being floored in the area as he again displayed the impressive form that has also made him the Champions League top …. Read the original article  : Unrelenting Eto’o on target to salvage home draw in Serie A.

Ferguson praises persistent Man United, Tottenham beaten

LONDON – Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson praised his side’s persistence as they pinched another late winner Saturday to step up their title challenge.

Ji-Sung Park scored his second goal of the game – in injury time – to give his side a 2-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, despite fielding a weakened side.
“We …. Read the original article  : Ferguson praises persistent Man United, Tottenham beaten.

North, not Hauritz should be Australia’s first-choice spinner: MacGill

SYDNEY – Former spinner Stuart MacGill has backed Marcus North to be retained for the coming Ashes series, as first-choice spinner.

The selectors are debating over Nathan Hauritz, Steve Smith, Xavier Doherty and a host of unproven candidates to fill the spinning slot.

MacGill, who bagged 208 Test wickets with his ripping leg breaks, said: “I think … Original source on Gaea Times at : North, not Hauritz should be Australia’s first-choice spinner: MacGill.

F1 champion Button escapes unhurt in Sao Paulo armed car attack

BRASILIA – Formula One world champion Jenson Button has escaped unhurt from an attempted armed attack as he was driven away from the Brazilian Grand Prix circuit in Sao Paulo on Saturday, according to his McLaren racing team.

“Would-be assailants made an attempt to approach the car that was carrying Jenson Button” on Saturday, BBC … Read more »».

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