Sports News – Weekly Newsletter for January 10-17, 2011
Monday, January 17, 2011
Paine ready to grab opportunity thrown up by Oz big boys’ Ashes failure
SYDNEY – Australian wicket-keeper Tim Paine reckons that the national team’s recent Test form had opened up opportunities for the next generation, and said that he will be ready, whatever that opportunity may be.
“I showed in (the 2010 tour of) India that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Paine ready to grab opportunity thrown up by Oz big boys’ Ashes failure.
Spot-fixing case: Afridi, Waqar, Najam “favoured” suspended Pak trio, says Butt’s father
PUNE – The statements given by Pakistan ODI skipper Shahid Afridi, coach Waqar Younis and the then former security manager, Major (retd) Khawaja Najam Javed, to the ICC’s Code of Conduct Commission are ‘not in the opposition’ of the suspended trio, Salman Butt’s father Zulfiqar Ali Butt has claimed.
Afridi, Waqar and Najam recorded their statements … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Spot-fixing case: Afridi, Waqar, Najam “favoured” suspended Pak trio, says Butt’s father.
England aims to ‘continue the momentum’ gained after Ashes win: Collingwood
MELBOURNE – England batsman Paul Collingwood is confident that his team will thrash Australia in the upcoming seven-match ODI series to ‘continue the momentum’ to the 50-over World Cup in the Indian subcontinent.
“It’s huge for us because we want to continue the momentum that we have gained. We’ve got a group of lads who … Read this article on Gaea Times at : England aims to ‘continue the momentum’ gained after Ashes win: Collingwood.
Ashes-winning England’s biggest test will come against India: Vaughan
LONDON – The Andrew Strauss-led England team is still on a high after thrashing Australia in the Ashes series, but there is work to be done, according to former captain Michael Vaughan.
“Winning the Ashes is great and creates a lot of jubilation and back-page headlines, but the real benchmark for this England side will be …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Ashes-winning England’s biggest test will come against India: Vaughan.
Ntini retires from international cricket
DURBAN – South African fast bowler Makhaya Ntini retired from international cricket at the end of the Twenty20 match played between India and South Africa in Durban on Sunday.
Ntini finished with figures of 0-46 from four overs and also came out to bat in front of a sell-out crowd of 50 000 fans, the biggest …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Ntini retires from international cricket.
Lee eyeing bowling coach role if not selected in Oz World Cup squad
MELBOURNE – Australian fast bowler Brett Lee has said that he wants to lead the national team’s pace attack in the 50-over World Cup in the Indian subcontinent, but hinted that if he was overlooked by the selectors he would consider a coaching role.
Lee will make his return to international cricket in Wednesday’s Twenty20 match … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lee eyeing bowling coach role if not selected in Oz World Cup squad.
Collingwood says England is world’s No.1 Twenty20 team
MELBOURNE – England Twenty20 captain Paul Collingwood reckons that his 2010 Twenty20 World Cup-winning squad is the shortest form of the game’s world No.1 team.
England will be looking to stretch its world record-winning streak in Twenty20’s to eight matches when they face Australia in the opening match at the Adelaide Oval on Wednesday.
“I’d be … Original article on : Collingwood says England is world’s No.1 Twenty20 team.
Spot-fixing case: Pak players went out of way to entertain bookie Mazhar, reveals Najam
ISLAMABAD – Khawaja Javed Najam, former security manager of the Pakistan cricket team, has revealed the details of how suspended Test captain Salman Butt and wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal violated the team regulations to entertain bookmaker Mazhar Majeed in their hotel room during the England tour in August 2010.
On the fourth day of the spot-fixing …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Sourav Ganguly In IPL 2011: Will He Play?
KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- This weekend of Indian Premier League (IPL) 20-20 tournament 2011 auction witnessed money raining down on the cricketers as the owners of the respective teams chose the best possible player for them. However, to the shock of the Bengalis, veteran cricketer Sourav Ganguly failed to get any bid this year. A … Read more : Sourav Ganguly In IPL 2011: Will He Play?.
Tottenham Hotspur still has chances of signing Beckham: Redknapp
LONDON – England midfielder David Beckham’s on-off three-month loan move to Tottenham Hotspur is back on again, according to manager Harry Redknapp.
When Redknapp arrived at White Hart Lane on Sunday, he had virtually given up all hope of signing Beckham when he revealed: “It’s 99 per cent that he won’t be joining us.”
However, after a [..] Read the original article: here.
Vettori says IPL auction didn’t distract Kiwis during Hamilton Test defeat to Pakistan
HAMILTON – New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori insists that the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction did not play on the minds of his team during the humiliating 10-wicket defeat to Pakistan in the first Test held in Hamilton.
Vettori, Ross Taylor, Jesse Ryder and Brendon McCullum were among the players who went under the hammer in …. Read the original article : here.
Oz all-rounder Christian stunned by 900,000 dollar IPL contract
SYDNEY – Australian all-rounder Dan Christian has said that his new 900,000 dollar contract with Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Deccan Chargers has come as a surprise to him.
The 27-year-old, who has just three Twenty20 games of international experience, was snapped up for a price 18 times that of his base price of 50,000 dollars … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Oz all-rounder Christian stunned by 900,000 dollar IPL contract.
Former Windies batsman Joey Carew passes away
SYDNEY – Former West Indies opening batsman and chairman of selectors Joey Carew died on Saturday at the age of 73.
Carew had played 19 Tests from 1963 to 1972, during which his sole century came against New Zealand at Eden Park in 1969.
He went on to serve as a selector for the West Indies Cricket …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Collingwood demands intensity as England’s focus turns to World Cup
ADELAIDE – Having secured the Ashes series Down Under by three games to one, England are now hoping to nail the Australians in both the Twenty20s and the one-day series, and set themselves up as World Cup favourites.
Twenty20 skipper Paul Collingwood has called on his fellow players to put the celebrations on the backburner, and …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Collingwood demands intensity as England’s focus turns to World Cup.
IPL owners ignore Anderson, seven other England Ashes heroes
LONDON – Indian Premier League (IPL) owners have ignored fast bowler James Anderson and seven other Ashes winning England players in the two-day auction for the fourth edition of the event.
Of the eight members of the team that beat Australia in Melbourne in Sydney who put themselves up for auction, only two – Kevin Pietersen … Read more »»».
Dropped for Oz-England 20-20s, Haddin says decision odd and confusing
SYDNEY – Australian wicketkeeper Brad Haddin has joined the rest of nation in trying to understand the decisions made by the National Selection Panel (NSP) before and during the Ashes series that has just concluded Down Under.
Haddin has become the first player to echo the thoughts of cricket fans around the country branding selection chairman …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Ashes series loss: Ponting welcomes thorough review
SYDNEY – Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting wants Australia’s failure to continue producing high-quality Test cricketers probed as part of a wide-ranging review into the dreadful Ashes campaign.
Questioning the strength of state cricket, Ponting also called for greater scrutiny of club and junior cricket, and added that he knew that vice-captain Michael Clarke and …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Ashes series loss: Ponting welcomes thorough review.
Ashes victory: The five best jokes at Australia’s expense
MELBOURNE – The Australian cricket teams endured a humiliating defeat against England in the Ashes series, and naturally have been subjected to both ridicule and jokes.
Here, according to the Telegraph, are five best jokes.
1) What do you call an Australian with 100 by his name? A bowler.
2) Why can’t Aussies open bottles? Because they don’t have … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ashes victory: The five best jokes at Australia’s expense.
Coach Flower prepared to pull England players out of IPL
SYDNEY – Coach Andy Flower has said he would pull England players out of the Indian Premier League in order to keep them fresh for national duty.
“I don’t blame any of the players for wanting to go and play. But it is tricky because the schedules are so heavy. Rest is sometimes as important as …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Saudi Arabia sack Peseiro after first game at Asian Cup
DOHA – Saudi Arabian football officials Sunday fired coach Jose Peseiro after the team was stunned 2-1 by Syria in their Asian Cup Group B opener earlier in the evening.
The Saudi news agency SPA said that the Portuguese Peseiro had been releaved of his duties with immediate effect and that Nasser Al-Johar would coach …. Read the original article : Saudi Arabia sack Peseiro after first game at Asian Cup.
Chelsea’s Lamps says he feels like an outcast
LONDON – Chelsea mid-fielder Frank Lampard has admitted that he feels like an outcast after spending three-and-a-half-months off the playing field with a groin tendon tear.
The Sun quoted him as saying: “I’m used to being part of the team, travelling away. You feel like an outcast … Original article on : Chelsea’s Lamps says he feels like an outcast.
IPL responsible for Australia’s decline: Miandad
KARACHI – Former Pakistan captain Javed Miandad has blamed the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Australias stunning downfall saying the money-spinning Twenty20 league has left their top cricketers completely distracted.
Miandads advice to international stars, especially from Australia, is to think twice before falling in the cash trap again.
The Aussies, who till last year … Read more >>.
Liverpool deserves to be struggling: Michael Owen
LONDON – Manchester United striker Michael Owen has stuck the boot into Liverpool saying his old club deserves to be struggling.
The Sun quoted Owen, 31, as saying: “Their position reflects where they are at now – they’re in the middle of a transitional period and off the pitch they’ve had a change of ownership. They’re …. Original source : Liverpool deserves to be struggling: Michael Owen.
Kim Hughes says Ric Charlesworth should review ailing Oz cricket system
MELBOURNE – Former Test captain Kim Hughes wants coaching guru Ric Charlesworth to do an independent review of the Australian cricket system in the wake of a demand for revamping the system, following the Ashes humiliation at the hands of England.
Australian skipper Ricky Ponting and spin legend Shane Warne have called for a far-reaching review … Read more »».
Hewitt to assess tennis future after 2011 grand slams
MELBOURNE – Australian tennis player Lleyton Hewitt has said that he will assess his future in the sport after seeing his performance in the grand slam tournaments of 2011.
Ranked 54 in the world, the former world No.1 says it is hard to gauge how high he can climb back up the ladder.
“It’s hard to say, …. Original article : Hewitt to assess tennis future after 2011 grand slams.
Patience key word for Kiwi batsmen as well as public: Wright
WELLINGTON – New Zealand cricket coach John Wright has urged people to be patient as he goes about rectifying the national team’s batting fragility ahead of the second test against Pakistan at Wellington, starting on Saturday.
Wright’s first test in charge of his country ended in a cricketing disaster, New Zealand losing all 10 second innings …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Patience key word for Kiwi batsmen as well as public: Wright.
Pak chief selector refutes allegations of bookie’s presence in team hotel
LAHORE – Pakistan’s chief selector Mohsin Khan has denied allegations that a national selector was aware of the spot-fixing deals between tainted cricketers and bookie Mazhar Majeed during Pakistan’s tour of England last year.
“As far as I know, no selector was aware about the bookie’s presence in the players’ rooms,” the Nation quoted Khan, as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak chief selector refutes allegations of bookie’s presence in team hotel.
Tait ready to give England some chin music in Twenty20s
ADELAIDE – South Australian fast bowler Shaun Tait believes some chin music against the Poms starting in Adelaide tomorrow night, could help Australia come out of an off-key summer.
Tait promised to deliver some short barrages to England’s Twenty20 cricketers in the two-game series.
The South Australian tearaway, who will partner fellow quick Brett Lee in Australia’s …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Tait ready to give England some chin music in Twenty20s.
Axed from Oz 20-20 squad, Haddin fears for career
SYDNEY – Australia’s cricket selectors are yet to inform wicketkeeper Brad Haddin about his axing from the national Twenty20 side, even as he fears that his cricket career may just be over sooner than later.
Selectors are yet to inform Haddin as to why he was left out of this week’s matches against England despite Andrew …. Source article : Axed from Oz 20-20 squad, Haddin fears for career.
Waqar hopes a fresh start for Pakistan cricket after Doha hearing
KARACHI – Pakistan coach Waqar Younis hoped that his team will be able to play some controversy-free cricket once a decision is taken by an independent tribunal that has finished hearing a spot-fixing case involving Mohammad Asif, Salman Butt and Mohammed Asif in Doha.
“I hope all goes well and I hope the …. Source : Waqar hopes a fresh start for Pakistan cricket after Doha hearing.
New skipper Paine feels the pain of England’s mean machine
CANBERRA – Australia’s reserve wicketkeeper Tim Paine found out on Monday how hard it has been to captain a team against England.
Handed the captaincy to give selectors a chance to assess his credentials as a possible Test skipper, Paine performed serviceably but was hamstrung by an innocuous attack and some imperious batting from the visitors, … Read more >>.
Top seed Wozniacki crashes out of Medibank International
SYDNEY – Top seed Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark Tuesday lost her opening match of the season at the WTA Medibank International tennis tournament.
A day of rain interruptions did little to make life easier for the 20-year-old in the second-round match, which she lost to Dominika Cibulkova of Slovakia 3-6, 3-6.
Third seed Kim Clijsters … Read more : Top seed Wozniacki crashes out of Medibank International.
Spinners Hauritz, Doherty to face off for World Cup spot
MELBOURNE – Test discards Nathan Hauritz and Xavier Doherty are set to duel for the role of Australia’s No.1 spinner at the World Cup after both were included in a 14-man squad for the first of seven one-day internationals against England.
Michael Clarke will captain the side against the old enemy at the MCG on Sunday …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Spinners Hauritz, Doherty to face off for World Cup spot.
Oz cricket captain uncertainty reflects Test preparation woes
MELBOURNE – Australian cricket is in a sorry state, and it is best summed up by the fact that Cricket Australia is not sure who is the best man to lead the Test side out of the doldrums brought on by consecutive Ashes series defeats.
With series against Sri Lanka, South Africa and India on the … Read more >>>.
Pak spot-fixing trial likely to conclude in Doha today
DOHA – Former Pakistan Test captain Salman Butt, and fast bowlers Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif, who were involved in a spot-fixing scandal, are likely to discover their fates today, when an independent International Cricket Council (ICC) tribunal delivers its verdict.
It is alleged that the cricketers conspired in the bowling of deliberate no-balls during Pakistan’s [..] Read the original article: here.
Clarke is finished unless he changes his footwork: Kim Hughes
MELBOURNE – Michael Clarke, who averaged a miserable 21 in the Ashes series against England, is finished and will struggle to retain his spot in the Australian side, according to former Test captain Kim Hughes.
“Unless he changes his footwork, he will struggle to score in Test cricket, and therefore, struggle to hold his spot in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Clarke is finished unless he changes his footwork: Kim Hughes.
Pakistan to play premier domestic final with pink balls
KARACHI – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has planned to hold the final of the countrys premier first-class tournament under floodlights and with pink balls at the National Stadium here.
While the countrys cricket bosses are hailing their own decision as a historic one, several former players have questioned the idea of carrying … Read more : Pakistan to play premier domestic final with pink balls.
Pietersen to auction Ashes shirt, bat to help Oz flood victims
ADELAIDE – England batsman Kevin Pietersen has generously offered to auction a shirt and bat he used during England’s Ashes triumph to raise money for the Queensland flood victims.
The highest bidder will also be rewarded with flights, accommodation and two tickets for the upcoming one-day international against Australia in Perth.
According to Fox Sports, Pietersen described … Read : Pietersen to auction Ashes shirt, bat to help Oz flood victims.
Low-bid Ryder succeeds in nabbing IPL pay-off
WELLINGTON – New Zealand batsman Jesse Ryder and his manager Aaron Klee have succeeded in securing a spot in the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League thanks to offering Ryder at a lesser price to franchise owners.
Ryder and manager Aaron Klee decided that the former’s best opportunity lay at a lesser price.
Klee was always …. Original source : Low-bid Ryder succeeds in nabbing IPL pay-off.
Beckham ready to take pay cut for playing in Premier League
LONDON – England midfielder David Beckham is ready take a pay cut for a three-month loan move to Tottenham Hotspur.
If the deal between Beckham and Tottenham Hotspur goes through, it would be the first time that the 35-year-old will be playing for an English club since he left Manchester United to join Real Madrid in …. Source article : Beckham ready to take pay cut for playing in Premier League.
ICC defers spot fixing verdict on three Pakistani player
DOHA – The International Cricket Council (ICC) has deferred its verdict on the spot-fixing investigation involving three Pakistani cricketers Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamer in the Lord’s Test but gave the two fast bowlers a clean chit for The Oval Test.
In a statement, Michael Beloff, the head of the three-member anti-corruption tribunal … Original article on : ICC defers spot fixing verdict on three Pakistani player.
Misbah should be Pak World Cup captain: Sikander Bakht
KARACHI – Former Test cricketer Sikander Bakht has said that current Test captain Misbah-ul-Haq should captain the World Cup side instead of Shahid Afridi.
Bakht has joined Zaheer Abass, Aamir Sohail and Sarfraz Nawaz in criticizing all-rounder Afridi’s captaincy.
Talking to German Radio Deutsche Welle Urdu Service on Tuesday, Bakht said a captain always lead from …. Original source : Misbah should be Pak World Cup captain: Sikander Bakht.
Waqar hopes Pak cricket will get off to a fresh start
WELLINGTON – Pakistan coach Waqar Younis is hoping that the national team will get off to a fresh start and play some controversy-free cricket once a decision is taken by an independent tribunal in the spot-fixing case involving Mohammad Asif, Salman Butt and Mohammad Aamir in Doha.
“I hope all goes well and I hope … Read more »».
Pak Spot Gate: ICC corruption panel says it wants more time
DOHA – The International Cricket Council’s anti-corruption panel has said that it requires more time to decide the fate of three Pakistan cricketers who have been accused of corruption during a Test match in England last year.
The hearing has been deferred to February 5.
According to the BBC, former skipper Salman Butt and bowlers Mohammad …. Read the original article : Pak Spot Gate: ICC corruption panel says it wants more time.
Border unveils revolutionary search plan for Ashes heroes
MELBOURNE – Cricket Australia has turned to Baggy Green Idol Allan Border to help it to unearth the country’s next cricketing superstar.
Fronting new reality-TV show Cricket Superstar, which will commence auditions in Bunbury, Western Australia, today, Border said it was anything but a blatant ratings grab.
In fact, the former Test star said that he is … Read : Border unveils revolutionary search plan for Ashes heroes.
White now being seen as the face of modern Australian cricket
MELBOURNE – In the eyes of the Australian selectors, the power and resourcefulness that Victoria captain Cameron White brings to the shorter forms of the game appear to have come at the expense of a technique sound enough to hold down a Test spot.
White is now being seen as the face of modern Australian cricket.
All …. Original article : White now being seen as the face of modern Australian cricket.
Premier League star blackmailed over orgy with 3 blondes
LONDON – An alleged plot to blackmail a Premier League footballer over his having an orgy with three Swedish blondes is being investigated by the police.
The footballer, who is in his 20s and plays for a team in the league’s top ten, is said to have romped with the girls and two male pals in … Original article on : Premier League star blackmailed over orgy with 3 blondes.
Bangladesh World Cup team gets new sponsors
DHAKA – The Beximco Group has replaced Grameenphone as the official sponsors of Bangladesh’s cricket team for the forthcoming World Cup.
Grameenphone, a joint venture between Norway-based Telenor and Grameen Bank’s sister concern Grameen Telecom Corporation, is out because of a conflict of interest with the International Cricket Council (ICC) sponsor Reliance Communications, an …. Read the original article : here.
Andre Agassi uses ‘nude’ image of wife Steffi Graf for charity
LONDON – Tennis legend Andre Agassi has reportedly shown a ‘nude’ picture of his wife Steffi Graf on his mobile phone to the winning bidder at a charity auction in Taiwan.
The Grand Slam winner said that he would show the picture to whoever was willing to shell out 4000 dollars, reports the Sun.
“You pay more … Read more >>.
Iran come from behind to beat defending champions Iraq
DOHA – Iran came from behind to stun defending champions Iraq 2-1 in an Asian Cup Group D match played in Doha Tuesday, while the other group game between World Cup finalists North Korea and the United Arab Emirates ended 0-0.
In the Al Rayyan stadium, Iraqi Younus Mahmood – a hero from the 2007 …. Source article : Iran come from behind to beat defending champions Iraq.
North Korea miss penalty in 0-0 draw with UAE
DOHA – World Cup finalists North Korea missed a penalty as they were held to 0-0 draw by the United Arab Emirates at the Asian Cup Tuesday.
North Korea should have taken the lead in the 10th minute after Jong Tae Se was brought down by Hamdan Al Kamali in the area and Malaysian referee … Read more : North Korea miss penalty in 0-0 draw with UAE.
Ranji Trophy final: Rajasthan 198/3 against Baroda
VADODARA – Skipper Hrishikesh Kanitkar stroked a half-century as Rajasthan made a solid start in the Ranji Trophy final against Baroda amassing 198 for three at the end of the first day’s play here Tuesday.
Kanitkar, former India player, scored 61 off 147 balls with seven fours and a six.
Robin Bist … Original article on : Ranji Trophy final: Rajasthan 198/3 against Baroda.
Gilchrist to lead Kings XI Punjab in IPL-4
NEW DELHI – Former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist will lead Kings XI Punjab in the fourth season of Indian Premier League (IPL) beginning Feb 19.
Gilchrist played for Deccan Chargers in the first three seasons and lead them to victory in 2009.
“I am excited to represent Kings XI Punjab, one of the most passionate … Read : Gilchrist to lead Kings XI Punjab in IPL-4.
Ishant to replace injured Praveen for ODI series
DURBAN – The five-match one-day India-South Africa cricket series beginning here Wednesday is the last opportunity for the two countries to test their players before finalising their World Cup squads.
However, both teams are struggling to keep their players free from injuries before the mega event kicks off in the subcontinent Feb 19.
… Original article on : Ishant to replace injured Praveen for ODI series.
Pietersen bats for Queensland flood victims
LONDON – England batsman Kevin Pietersen Tuesday decided to auction his bat and shirt he used during the Ashes series to raise money for the Queensland flood victims.
The state of Queensland has witnessed widespread devastation in the last week with the floods killing at least eight people.
Pietersen, who is currently with the …. Read the original article : Pietersen bats for Queensland flood victims.
Pakistan bowler Aamer wants judgment deferred
KARACHI – Suspended Pakistani bowler Mohammad Aamer’s lawyer Shahid Karim is satisfied with the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) hearing on spot-fixing but wants the three-man tribunal to take a careful look at the case before pronouncing the verdict.
The closing statements of the six-day hearing were presented Tuesday morning …. Source article : Pakistan bowler Aamer wants judgment deferred.
India upbeat despite heavy loss: Goalkeeper Paul
DOHA – India goalkeeper Subrata Paul feels the loss against the mighty Australia was not demoralising, despite conceding four goals, and the team should take on Bahrain confidently in the next Group C Asian Cup match here Friday.
“We lost, but we have not been swamped. It was a fair result and I can …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Lee, Tait recalled for first ODI against England
MELBOURNE – Brett Lee and Shaun Tait have been included in the 14-man Australian squad for their Commonwealth Bank Series One-day Internationals (ODI) against England.
Spinner Nathan Hauritz and David Hussey, too, have been called up. Hauritz was overlooked for the entire Ashes series which Australia lost 3-1.
Lee and Hussey have not played a …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Low response to New Zealand-Pak matches, fans feel not getting value for money
WELLINGTON – New Zealand Cricket is facing a tough task of attracting crowds to Pakistan tour matches, as fans feel they are not getting value for money from the struggling Blacks Caps.
NZ Cricket’s figures show just 5955 people attended the first test, barely half …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Low response to New Zealand-Pak matches, fans feel not getting value for money.
Nadal, Messi nominated for Laureus Sportsman of the Year award
ABU DHABI – Tennis star Rafael Nadal, Barcelona footballers Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi and Formula One driver Germany’s Sebastian Vettel are among those nominated for the Laureus World ‘Sportsman of the Year’ award.
Nadal became the first man since 1969 to win the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open in the same year in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nadal, Messi nominated for Laureus Sportsman of the Year award.
Liverpool succumbs to tenth defeat of season
LONDON – Liverpool caretaker chief Kenny Dalglish lost his second consecutive game since taking over from Roy Hodgson as his players suffered humiliation at the hands of Blackpool.
After a 10th defeat of the season for Liverpool, and a stunning … Original article on : Liverpool succumbs to tenth defeat of season.
Wenger blames defenders for Carling Cup semi-final defeat
LONDON – Arsene Wenger has criticized his defenders after Arsenal suffered Carling Cup humiliation at the hands of Ipswich in a first leg semi-final match.
Wenger said: “We were below our usual level in every department. We were not sharp, not creative. We rely a lot … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Wenger blames defenders for Carling Cup semi-final defeat.
Spinner Swann keen for more success in cricket’s white-ball formats
ADELAIDE – Off-spinner Graeme Swann wants England to build on their Ashes victory with further success in the limited-overs matches against Australia.
The first of two T20Is took place in Adelaide on Wednesday and England emerged a winner by a wicket. The second …. Source : Gaea News Network.
CCTV footage leads to soccer ace Bellamy’s arrest
LONDON – Soccer ace Craig Bellamy was arrested Wednesday after cops studied CCTV footage of a 3 a.m. street brawl.he Cardiff City striker had his lawyer present as he was quizzed about the incident.
Bellamy’s arrest follows an alleged assault on two men aged … Original article on : CCTV footage leads to soccer ace Bellamy’s arrest.
Spurs say taking on Beckham not a front for move into Olympic stadium
LONDON – Tottenham FC have rejected reports that their bid to sign David Beckham on loan is not a front for their proposed move into the Olympic Stadium after London 2012.ccording to The Sun, Spurs are slugging it out with West Ham to take over the Stratford stadium after the Games, …. Original article : Spurs say taking on Beckham not a front for move into Olympic stadium.
India suffer sixth straight loss to Proteas (Statistical Highlights)
DURBAN – India suffered its second biggest and sixth straight loss to South Africa after going down by 135 runs in the first One-day International at the Kingsmead here.
South Africa’s biggest win against India also came at the same venue in 2006 when the Proteas won by 157 runs.
The other statistical highlights of …. Source article : India suffer sixth straight loss to Proteas (Statistical Highlights).
Australian Open seedings
MELBOURNE – Seeds were announced Thursday for the $25 million dollar Australian Open, which starts Monday:
Women:
Caroline Wozniacki, 1, Denmark
Vera Zvonareva, 2, Russia
Kim Clijsters, 3, Belgium
Venus Williams, 4, US
Samantha Stosur, 5, Australia
Francesca Schiavone, 6, Italy
Jelena Jankovic, 7, Serbia
Victoria Azarenka, 8, Belarus
… Read : Australian Open seedings.
Ines Sainz Supports New York Jets
NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- The reporter of Mexico’s Azteca channel, Ines Sainz has given an interview to a reputed magazine, where she said that she hold no grudges against New York Jets anymore. This comment comes months after the controversy surrounding the accusations and complains against the New York Jets players by the reporter herself. …. Source article : Ines Sainz Supports New York Jets.
Federer, Nadal to head star-studded flood relief event
MELBOURNE – Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are to head an all-star lineup Sunday as the tennis world stages a fund-raiser for the Queensland flood victims.
Federer, who led a charity day for Haiti earthquake victims a year ago at Melbourne Park before the start of the Grand Slam, took charge again and rallied his … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Federer, Nadal to head star-studded flood relief event.
Pak’s holding of Quaid-e-Azam final under lights may revolutionize Test cricket: Miandad
KARACHI – Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Director General Javed Miandad believes that Test cricket could be headed for a revolution if the experiment to hold the final match of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy in the ‘day and night’ format is successful.
The PCB has decided to hold the final Test between Habib Bank Limited (HBL) and Pakistan … Original article on : Pak’s holding of Quaid-e-Azam final under lights may revolutionize Test cricket: Miandad.
Love for tennis can take Federer beyond 20 Grand Slam titles: Annacone
LONDON – Tennis ace Roger Federer can increase his number of Grand Slam titles beyond the 20-mark as long as he stays in love with the game, according to his coach Paul Annacone.
Federer won his 16th major title at last year’s Australian Open, but since then he has dropped to No.2 in the world, behind …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Martin overtakes McGrath to become slowest to reach 100 runs in Test
WELLINGTON – New Zealand pace bowler Chris Martin became slowest player to reach 100 runs in Test cricket during last week’s first Test against Pakistan in Hamilton.
The 36-year-old veteran of 60 tests brought up his 100th Test run during the crushing 10-wicket defeat in Hamilton, a feat that arguably led to the biggest cheer from …. Original source : Martin overtakes McGrath to become slowest to reach 100 runs in Test.
Capello proclaims Vauxhall a ‘fantastic’ brand for English football
LONDON – England boss Fabio Capello has proudly proclaimed Vauxhall as a “fantastic brand” for the nation’s football fraternity, and hoped it would “be with us for a long, long time.”
Capello celebrated England’s new era with Vauxhall by driving around in a 64,000-pound S Class Diesel Saloon S350L Mercedes Benz.
The British carmakers have …. Source article : Capello proclaims Vauxhall a ‘fantastic’ brand for English football.
Waqar expects wounded Kiwis to hit back hard on fast and bouncy Wellington track
WELLINGTON – Pakistan cricket team coach Waqar Younis is expecting a fast and bouncy track at Basin Reserve in Wellington, where it plays the second and final test against New Zealand, starting January 15.
Pakistan enjoy 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series after winning the Hamilton Test by ten wickets in just about three days.
Waqar …. Read the original article : Waqar expects wounded Kiwis to hit back hard on fast and bouncy Wellington track.
Platini wants other Gulf nations to joint Qatar in hosting 2022 WC
LONDON – UEFA boss Michel Platini has asked the 2022 World Cup, which will be hosted in Qatar, to be expanded to include other Gulf nations.
Platini is widely assumed to have voted for Qatar that swept to victory at last month’s vote, even though it has no football pedigree.
Within days of the ballot, several … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Platini wants other Gulf nations to joint Qatar in hosting 2022 WC.
Spot-fixing case: Former ICC chief feels suspended Pak trio will be “harshly punished”
ISLAMABAD – Former International Cricket Council (ICC) President Ehsan Mani has expressed his happiness with the way the anti-corruption tribunal has handled the spot-fixing case against the suspended Pakistani trio, and said he has a ‘gut feeling’ that ‘all the three’ will be handed harsh punishments when the final verdict is announced next month.
Wright reads riot act to Kiwi players ahead of Wellington Test
WELLINGTON – Fresh from a 10-wicket defeat to Pakistan inside three days in Hamilton, coach John Wright gathered the New Zealand cricket team on the outfield yesterday and laid down the law as preparations began for the second test, starting on Saturday.
Nearby, turf manager Brett Sipthorpe was putting the finishing touches to the test strip, …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Wright reads riot act to Kiwi players ahead of Wellington Test.
White sees promising signs in Oz Twenty20 loss
ADELAIDE – Australian Twenty20 captain Cameron White believes that while his team lost the first of two Twenty20 internationals to England, there are some promising signs that suggest the team is on the mend.
“The English team has shown through the summer they have been a very hard team to beat. There was a lot of …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Sport superstars take aim at flood
MELBOURNE/BRISBANE – International superstars Roger Federer and Lance Armstrong are among many high-profile sportspeople contributing to Queensland flood relief campaigns.
Seven-time Tour de France winner Armstrong, who has just arrived in Adelaide for the Tour Down Under, is in talks with Australian sprinting star Robbie McEwen to organise the race’s peloton to do “something special”, The [..] Read the original article: here.
Mckay joins list of injured Australian bowlers to miss 2011 World Cup
MELBOURNE – Foot injury to Australian fast bowler Clint Mckay will keep him out of the game for at least 10 weeks, which means he will miss the World Cup.
Mckay is third in Australia’s one-day wicket tally over the past year, having taken 27 wickets at an average of 19.59. The top wicket-taker, Ryan Harris, …. Source : Mckay joins list of injured Australian bowlers to miss 2011 World Cup.
Wrestling coach in US put on paid leave for calling Obama an ‘idiot’
WASHINGTON – An Ultimate Fighting Championship fighter has been put on paid leave from his job as a wrestling coach after he insulted President Obama’s intelligence and challenged him to a fight.
Jacob Volkmann said that he is under investigation by White … Read more »»».
Finch backs Aussies to bounce back in Melbourne Twenty20 against England
MELBOURNE – Australian batsman Aaron Finch is confident that his team can bounce back in Friday’s second Twenty20 International against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Australia had lost the first Twenty20 International at …. Read the original article : here.
Cook awarded ‘Freedom of the City of London’ for Ashes heroics
LONDON – England opening batsman Alastair Cook has been awarded the ‘Freedom of the City of London’ following his exploits in the recent historic Ashes win over Australia.he ancient honour is given to those who have made an outstanding contribution to London life or to … Read more : Cook awarded ‘Freedom of the City of London’ for Ashes heroics.
Tribunal’s decision to defer spot-fixing verdict may be “silver lining” for Aamir: Lawyer
ISLAMABAD – The ICC Anti-Corruption Tribunal’s decision to defer the spot-fixing verdict until next month can be a “silver lining” for suspended Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Aamir, his lawyer has said.
Shahid Karim, who represented Aamir in the spot-fixing case in Doha, was confident that … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tribunal’s decision to defer spot-fixing verdict may be “silver lining” for Aamir: Lawyer.
Dakar Rally driver crashes in Argentina, one dead
CATAMARCA – One person was dead Thursday after a Dakar Rally participant crashed into a car that was not involved in the race.
The race participant, Eduardo Amor, of Argentina was arrested pending further investigation of the incident, the Argentine news agency DyN reported.
The dead man was identified as an Argentinian who was driving …. Original source : Dakar Rally driver crashes in Argentina, one dead.
Australia-England Twenty20 match in Melbourne to go ahead
MELBOURNE – Cricket Australia (CA) has said that it expects Friday’s Twenty20 International between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) to go ahead, with rain forecast to clear.
Cricket Australia spokesman Peter Young, however, said that the International Cricket Council (ICC) would make the final decision on the match.
“Watching the radar it indicates … Original source on Gaea Times at : Australia-England Twenty20 match in Melbourne to go ahead.
Coach Mancini fines four Man City stars for fighting during training
LONDON – Coach Roberto Mancini has fined four Manchester City stars for fighting at training.
Emmanuel Adebayor, Kolo Toure, Mario Balotelli and Jerome Boateng were all hit in the pocket for training-ground ruckus, reports the Sun.
Mancini has guided City to second spot in the Premier League – despite fireworks from four big-name players.
Mancini …. Source article : Coach Mancini fines four Man City stars for fighting during training.
Ukraine’s Wladimir Klitschko calls UK boxer Haye a liar and loser
LONDON – Ukrainian pugilist Wladimir Klitschko has branded David Haye a ‘liar’ and a ‘loser’ and questioned his claims that he will retire this year.
WBA champion Haye last week said he was ‘done’ with Klitschko and his brother Vitali, after talks over a heavyweight unification bout broke down when Wladimir agreed to fight Dereck Chisora …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Ukraine’s Wladimir Klitschko calls UK boxer Haye a liar and loser.
Chelsea midfielder Lampard wants to be club boss one day
LONDON – Chelsea and England midfielder Frank Lampard has indicated that he would like to take up a management role in football one day.
Regarded as one of the brightest footballers in the game, Lampard used his recent injury lay-off productively to study the action from the stands and analyse what he might have done in …. Original article : Chelsea midfielder Lampard wants to be club boss one day.
Dutch star Van Der Vaart wants to stay at Spurs forever
LONDON – Dutch football star Rafael Van Der Vaart wants to stay at Spurs for the rest of his career.
He has three-and-a-half years left on his contract.
The Sun quoted him, as saying: “I love it here. I love the players and I love the down-to-earth attitude at the club. If I have the opportunity, … Read more >>.
Tottenham coach Redknapp says Man U won’t last season unbeaten
LONDON – Tottenham coach Harry Redknapp has said that this won’t be a vintage season for Manchester United on the pitch.
In an article for the Sun, Redknapp said: “As good as they are, I do not think they are good enough to go through the whole season unbeaten. Even if they win the Premier League … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tottenham coach Redknapp says Man U won’t last season unbeaten.
‘Talented’ Kiwis must beat ‘pretty average’ Pak in Wellington Test: McMillan
WELLINGTON – Former New Zealand batsman Craig McMillan insists that nothing less than a victory is acceptable for the national team against a “pretty average” Pakistan team in the second and final Test, starting in Wellington on Saturday.
McMillan said that the Wellington Test is the only chance to make up for the humiliating 10-wicket loss … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Talented’ Kiwis must beat ‘pretty average’ Pak in Wellington Test: McMillan.
Kamran has been supportive throughout my career, says Adnan Akmal
WELLINGTON – Pakistan wicket-keeper Adnan Akmal insists that his eldest brother, Kamran, had been supportive right throughout his career, even when he replaced him during the Test series against South Africa and the ongoing series against New Zealand.
“He is good to practise my wicketkeeping skills with, it’s great for me to have Kamran coaching me …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Tennis stars unite for ‘Rally for Relief’ for Oz flood victims
MELBOURNE – Tennis stars who are in Melbourne for the Australian Open, will take part in a charity event, ‘Rally for Relief’, to help the flood victims of Queensland.
Tennis Australia has organised the televised event, which will be held at Melbourne Park on Sunday, ahead of the Australian Open starting on Monday.
The international tennis stars …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Tennis stars unite for ‘Rally for Relief’ for Oz flood victims.
Franklin likely starter in Wellington Test against Pakistan
WELLINGTON – New Zealand coach John Wright has hinted that all-rounder James Franklin may be included in the final eleven for the second and final Test against Pakistan.
Franklin enters the frame as a fourth pace-bowling option and a top-six batsman.
Wright said changes were being explored after the embarrassing 10-wicket defeat in the first Test … Read more >>>.
Dalglish wants Liverpool cash to get new players
LONDON – Manager Kenny Dalglish has said that he will sit down with Liverpool owner John W Henry today to see if he will be given transfer cash this month.
Henry originally planned to wait until the summer to splash the cash, but new arrivals in the current transfer window are now vital, The Sun …. Source : Dalglish wants Liverpool cash to get new players.
In Ponting and Chappell’s eyes, Watson is the key to Oz World Cup hopes
SYDNEY – In Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting’s eyes, the nation’s chances of winning the World Cup for a fourth consecutive time rest with New South Wales all-rounder Shane Watson.
“He would probably be the hardest player to replace in our line-up at the moment. I think the modern cricketer has to be much more adaptable …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Tiger Woods ‘possessive’ about ex Elin Nordegren
WASHINGTON – Love-rat Tiger Woods is reportedly ‘possessive’ about his ex-wife Elin Nordegren.
It has been reported that the golfer ransacked the Swedish stunner’s home to read her diary.
Nordegren told friends that Woods snuck into her Florida home over Thanksgiving last year, with the sole intent of finding her journals to find out details about her …. Original source : Tiger Woods ‘possessive’ about ex Elin Nordegren.
No room for both Tait and Lee in Oz WC squad
MELBOURNE – Australia’s loss to England in the first of two Twenty20 matches in Adelaide a couple of days ago with both Brett Lee and Shaun Tait in the line-up, has led to doubts about both being selected for next month’s World Cup in India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
There is also a view that Victorian …. Read the original article : No room for both Tait and Lee in Oz WC squad.
Vettori recovers from mystery illness ahead of ‘must win’ Wellington Test
WELLINGTON – New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori has said that he has recovered from his mystery illness, and will lead the team in the second and final Test against Pakistan in Wellington.
Visibly unwell during the second day of the first Test in Hamilton, which Pakistan won by 10 wickets, all sorts of rumours had circulated …. Original article : Vettori recovers from mystery illness ahead of ‘must win’ Wellington Test.
Oz players tell Cricket Australia Board members to sack themselves
MELBOURNE – Australian cricketers have asked the cricket board to resign in the wake of the Ashes debacle, and have called for an independent commission to run the game.
Cricket Australia chairman Jack Clarke is consulting governance experts as part of a major review, which will report in October, and did not rule out the possibility …. Source : Oz players tell Cricket Australia Board members to sack themselves.
Chelsea must win 15 of 17 games left to stay in Premiere League title hunt: Ancelotti
LONDON – Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has said that they must win at least 15 of their remaining 17 Premier League games to stand any chance of retaining the title.
Giving up hope of closing the nine-point gap on leaders Manchester United, he …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Chelsea must win 15 of 17 games left to stay in Premiere League title hunt: Ancelotti.
‘Frustrated’ Redkanpp all but gives up hope of signing Beckham for Tottenham stint
LONDON – Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has given the clearest hint that he will ditch plans to sign ace midfielder David Beckham.
He is frustrated because Beckham’s team LA Galaxy has delayed the midfielder registering with the Premier League.
Redknapp admitted he thought Beckham would be on loan at White Hart …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Cricket Australia must make cricket a more inclusive game in Australia: Jones
SYDNEY – Former Australian batsman Dean Jones has urged Cricket Australia (CA) to work harder to broaden its recruiting horizons.
“The process must start by making cricket in Australia a more inclusive game. One look at the Australian team can’t help, …. Read the original article : here.
Pakistan on top after day one of Wellington Test against Kiwis
WELLINGTON – Pakistan were on top in the second Test against New Zealand, as the home team scrambled to 246-6 at the close of play on the first day at Basin Reserve, Wellington.
Ross Taylor starred for New Zealand by scoring 78 off 168 balls, while Pakistan wicketkeeper Adnan Akmal held …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan on top after day one of Wellington Test against Kiwis.
Dumped Hauritz rewarded for astounding domestic performance in December
SYDNEY – Australian off-spinner Nathan Hauritz has bounced back from his disappointing Ashes omission by winning the Australian Cricket Association (ACA)’s player of the month award for December.
Playing for New South Wales (NSW), Hauritz took 13 wickets and made an astonishing 307 runs in the voting period.
He … Original article on : Dumped Hauritz rewarded for astounding domestic performance in December.
No international cricket match to be played in Pakistan, for now: Dave Richardson
KARACHI – The International Cricket Council (ICC) General Manager for operations, Dave Richardson, has made it clear that an immediate return of international cricket to Pakistan is not possible.
“Pakistan will not be deprived of any cricket… They’ll get as …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Nadal admits he is still not 100 percent fit
MELBOURNE – Rafael Nadal Saturday dropped a broad hint that his bid for a first career title at the Australian Open might not go exactly to plan.
The world number one said that a week after falling ill with a virus in Doha, “I am feeling better (but) I think not perfect yet.”
That kind [..] Read the original article: here.
Kenny Dalglish reckons his return can give Liverpool push towards derby glory
LONDON – Liverpool’s new boss Kenny Dalglish reckons that his return to Anfield can give the club a push towards derby glory.
Ahead of the clash with Everton, he said: “It can only help if the punters think it’s a positive … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kenny Dalglish reckons his return can give Liverpool push towards derby glory.
‘Bargain-buy’ Vettori ideal IPL replacement for Kumble: Mallya
WELLINGTON – Royal Challengers Bangalore owner Vijay Mallya has said Daniel Vettori was the ideal replacement for RCB’s retired skipper Anil Kumble, and added that he “kept a little back” to secure the New Zealand captain amid the auction frenzy.
Mallya said: “Anil Kumble, who was our [..] Read the original article: here.
No one annihilated Australia in the manner England did: Fletcher
MELBOURNE – Ashes-winning ex-England coach Duncan Fletcher has said that he has not seen any team annihilate Australia in the manner England did during the just concluded Ashes series.
England thrashed Australia by an innings and 83 runs in the fifth and final Test … Read more >>.
Rob Ryan: Dallas Cowboys’ New Defense Coordinator?
DALLAS (GaeaTimes.com)- It seems like the search for the Dallas Cowboys’s defense coordinator is coming to an end for latest developments in the Dallas Cowboys camp is hinting that they are going to hire Rob Ryan for the post. Although, no such official announcements have been made with regard to the news but a message …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Rob Ryan: Dallas Cowboys’ New Defense Coordinator?.
We conceded three silly goals, says Chettri
DOHA – Ace striker Sunil Chettri blamed the defence as India suffered a 2-5 loss against Bahrain in their second Asian Cup Group C match at the Al Sadd Stadium here Friday.
Chettri, who headed in the second goal from a rebound, said poor defending saw India conceding four goals in the …. Original article : We conceded three silly goals, says Chettri.
Hewitt seals AAMI title with win over injured Monfils
MELBOURNE – Lleyton Hewitt defeated Gael Monfils 7-5, 6-3 Saturday to win the Kooyong Classic, capping a perfect scenario for his first appearance at the Australian Open tuneup event.
But Monfils is facing trouble after apparently tweaking a back muscle as he led in the second set and now will need treatment before his start …. Read the original article : Hewitt seals AAMI title with win over injured Monfils.
Asian Cup will boost football’s profile in India: Houghton
DOHA – Despite a 2-5 whipping against Bahrain, India’s chief football coach Bob Houghton praised the side’s indomitable spirit and said the Asian Cup experience will boost the game’s profile in the country.
In a high scoring match at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium Friday night, Ismaeel Abdulatif scored four times as Bahrain – who …. Source : Asian Cup will boost football’s profile in India: Houghton.
Aussies face fight of their life to retain World Cup crown: Roebuck
SYDNEY – Noted cricket commentator Peter Roebuck reckons that the Australian team and management is not prepared for next month’s 50-over World Cup in the Indian sub-continent.
“World Cups are won by settled sides enjoying a run of form. Beset by injury, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Aussies face fight of their life to retain World Cup crown: Roebuck.
Akram backs PCB’s decision to retain Afridi as Pak ODI skipper
KARACHI – Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has backed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision to retain Shahid Afridi as skipper for the one-day series in New Zealand, starting January 22 in Wellington.
Akram’s comments came in the wake of the raging debate over whether …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Akram backs PCB’s decision to retain Afridi as Pak ODI skipper.
Oz cricketers attending breakfast functions ahead of Tests ’supreme error of judgment’
SYDNEY – Blasting cricketers for jeopardising their preparations during the Ashes series, Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland said Michael Clarke and Phillip Hughes made a “supreme error of judgment” in attending functions on the morning of Tests.
Clarke and Hughes attended the Shane Warne Foundation breakfast on …. Original article : Oz cricketers attending breakfast functions ahead of Tests ’supreme error of judgment’.
Federer tips Nadal to win Australian Open
MELBOURNE – Defending champion and 16-time grand slam winner Roger Federer has tipped Rafael Nadal to win the Australian Open this year, as the World No.1 chases history.
Nadal is in the quest to become the first man in 42 years to hold all four grand slam crowns simultaneously.
Federer, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Federer tips Nadal to win Australian Open.
Indian sub-continent will be ready to host World Cup: Lorgat
MELBOURNE – International Cricket Council (ICC) chief Haroon Lorgat has said that the Indian sub-continent will be ready to host next month’s 50-over World Cup, although he that admits five grounds are yet to be completed.
The final is scheduled to be played on April 2 at the …. Read the original article : Indian sub-continent will be ready to host World Cup: Lorgat.
Divert Oz teenage athletes back to cricket: Border
MELBOURNE – Former Australian captain Allan Border has said that Cricket Australia (CA) must divert teenage athletes from Australian Football League (AFL) and other sports to rebuild the national team following the recent Ashes disaster.
Border acknowledged the battle for the hearts and minds of junior athletes was “tough” at a time when football codes market …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Divert Oz teenage athletes back to cricket: Border.
Redknapp is Fergie’s choice for England manager after Capello
LONDON – Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp should be England’s manager after Italian Fabio Capello completes his contract in 2012.
Ferguson believes there is no need to look any further than White Hart Lane when Capello’s time is up.
“If the FA are saying that the job has to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Redknapp is Fergie’s choice for England manager after Capello.
Tendulkar out of South Africa series, Parthiv to fly in
JOHANNESBURG – Sachin Tendulkar has injured his hamstring and will return home. As his replacement, wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel will join the Indian squad in South Africa for the remaining three One-day internationals.
Tendulkar, who injured his right hamstring while batting in the second One-day against South Africa Saturday, is the fourth frontline Indian player …. Read the original article : Tendulkar out of South Africa series, Parthiv to fly in.
Harbhajan’s spell made the difference: Dhoni
JOHANNESBURG – Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni lauded the bowlers, particularly Harbhajan Singh, after the team’s remarkable victory over South Africa in the second One-day International (ODI) at the New Wanderers here.
Though Munaf Patel got the Man-of-the-Match award for his four-wicket haul, it was Harbhajan’s tight spell in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Harbhajan’s spell made the difference: Dhoni.
Hines Ward Awarded A Penalty
PITTSBURGH (GaeaTimes.com)- In a game filled with penalties, turnovers and scuffles, the Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Baltimore Ravens last night in the NFL playoffs played at Heinz Field, Pittsburgh. At one point, the Baltimore Ravens led by 21-7, they could not do much to ensure victory and Steelers went on to win the game. …. Source : Hines Ward Awarded A Penalty.
Tendulkar to return home with hamstring injury
JOHANNESBURG – Sachin Tendulkar has injured his hamstring and will return home, making him the fourth frontline Indian player to be injured with just a month left for the World Cup.
Tendulkar injured his right hamstring while batting in the second One-day International against South Africa Saturday and did not take field in the second …. Read the original article : here.
Munaf achieves career-best figures at Wanderers (Match highlights)
JOHANNESBURG – Munaf Patel recorded career-best bowling figures of 4 for 29 while Yuvraj Singh struck his maiden fifty in South Africa, as India clinched the second One-day International at the New Wanderers here.
The other highlights:
* Patel received the Man of the Match award for the second time in ODIs. … Read more »»».
Tennis ace Ana Ivanovic says split from beau affected her game
ADELAIDE – Tennis ace Ana Ivanovic says her break-up from her longtime love, Australian golfer Adam Scott, affected her game.
The glamourous player says her on-court performance suffered after the breakup in the middle of last year.
During the slump, her ranking fell outside the world top 50, and she lost in the opening round of Wimbledon.
“It’s … Read more : Tennis ace Ana Ivanovic says split from beau affected her game.
Grand Slam history beckons Nadal, but he insists he is under no pressure
MELBOURNE – The prospect of the 24-year-old Spaniard Rafael Nadal becoming only the third man ever to hold all four Grand Slam titles is the talk of this year’s Australian Open, which begins tomorrow, but Nadal himself insists that he feels under no more pressure than normal.
“This may be the only opportunity in my …. Original article : Grand Slam history beckons Nadal, but he insists he is under no pressure.
Indian leads Malaysia to football glory
KUALA LUMPUR – Indian origin coach K. Rajagopal, who led Malaysia to football to glory in the recent AFF Suzuki Cup, may be soft-spoken, but his success proves that he is made of sterner stuff.
WHEN people talk about the glory days of Malaysian football, names such as Mokhtar Dahari, Santokh Singh and Datuk Soh Chin …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Indian leads Malaysia to football glory.
Stephen Fleming tipped to be next India cricket coach
WELLINGTON – As ex-India coach John Wright tries to rescue his country’s cricket team, former Black Caps skipper Stephen Fleming is a top prospect to be named India’s next coach.
According to The Telegraph of Kolkata, Fleming is expected to be succeed currwent South African coach Gary Kirsten.
Fleming has been coaching the Chennai Super Kings … Read more »».
Sri Lanka tries to buy top Kiwis for T20 comp
WELLINGTON – Several of New Zealand’s biggest-hitting cricketers have been given yet another opportunity to line their pockets with wads of dollars after receiving approaches to take part in the Sri Lankan domestic Twenty20 competition midway through the year.
The Sunday Star-Times understands Ross Taylor, who last Saturday became an overnight millionaire after selling for … Read more : Sri Lanka tries to buy top Kiwis for T20 comp.
Ethiopians rule at Mumbai marathon (Second Lead)
MUMBAI – Among the thousands who hit the streets for the Mumbai marathon Sunday, Ethiopians dominated the show, with Koren Yal winning the 42-km full run among women and Girima Assefa reaching the finish line first in the men’s category.
B.C. Tilak of India won the 21-km half marathon, reaching the finish line in a … Read more : Ethiopians rule at Mumbai marathon (Second Lead).
Oz Open: Nadal, Clijsters touted as favourites to win
MELBOURNE – A majority of tennis veterans associated with the Australian Open have predicted that Spaniard Rafael Nadal and Belgian Kim Clijsters as the favourites to win this year’s Grand Slam in Melbourne, given their form of the past year, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.
Former champion Pat Cash said: “We can’t look past the top … Original source on Gaea Times at : Oz Open: Nadal, Clijsters touted as favourites to win.
Grand Slam tennis: Nadal needs to be wary as Federer not dead yet
MELBOURNE – The numbers show that the 29-year-old Roger Federer is quite capable of pulling the plug on Rafael Nadal’s party in Melbourne during the Australian Open.
Former tennis great John Newcombe argues that the late 20s does not necessarily have to herald decline.
“I think I was playing at my absolute peak at 29 [in … Read more »».
Aaron Rodgers’ New Girlfriend: “Gossip Girl” Star Jessica Szohr?
LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- A lot of new sporty love stories seems to be taking shape these days. The latest to get added to this list is that of Green Pay Packers quarterback, Aaron Rodgers. Reportedly, his new girlfriend is none other than the hot and sultry “Gossip Girl” star Jessica Szohr.
According to the sources, …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Aaron Rodgers’ New Girlfriend: “Gossip Girl” Star Jessica Szohr?.
Amir Khan insists he’s not behind Jordan’s marriage split
LONDON – Boxer Amir Khan has dismissed claims that he is the reason for Katie Price’s split from Alex Reid.
The world champ came out punching yesterday and hit out at the “twisted” rumours publicly on Twitter that Katie had dumped Alex for him.
“I am no marriage-wrecker,” the Daily Star quoted WBA light-welterweight champ as …. Read the original article : Amir Khan insists he’s not behind Jordan’s marriage split.
Ex-Test stars slam Oz selectors repeated snub of Hodge
MELBOURNE – Former Australian Test stars have called on the selectors to explain their treatment of Victorian Brad Hodge as he faces the prospect of being snubbed for the World Cup.
The 15-man Australian squad for next month’s World Cup is to be named this week and, it is unlikely to feature Hodge, who has been …. Source article : Ex-Test stars slam Oz selectors repeated snub of Hodge.
Capello in dark about appointment of new England football coach
LONDON – Italian Fabio Capello has been left in the dark over the appointment of a new English coach to the national team set-up.
Football Association general secretary Alex Horne revealed he had a “preferred candidate” for the role and expected to have them in place in February.
The Telegraph quoted a source close to …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Capello in dark about appointment of new England football coach.
Murray has two years to win grand slam title: Becker
MELBOURNE – Former Wimbledon champion Boris Becker has said that British tennis star Andy Murray has only two years left to possibly win a grand slam title, and adds that after that, it would be next to impossible to do.
Warning that time is ticking away for Murray, Becker said Murray must take any … Original article on : Murray has two years to win grand slam title: Becker.