Sports News – Monthly Newsletter February 2011

Listening to SuBo before a game relaxes me: Rooney

LONDON – Manchester United star Wayne Rooney has revealed that listening to Susan Boyle gives him relaxation before his big matches.

The England striker likes nothing better than a vigorous rubdown while listening to the singer belt out her hits.

Wayne even rejects harder R and B tunes favored by his teammates such as Frenchman Patrice Evra.

The … Read more >>>.

Injured Ryder withdraws from tour match against Pakistan

AUCKLAND – New Zealand batsman Jesse Ryder will miss the three-day tour match against Pakistan due to a shoulder injury.

Ryder was part of the initial New Zealand 11 named on Friday, but has withdrawn on medical advice.

The match, starting in Whangarei on Sunday, is a warm-up for the two-Test series beginning in Hamilton on January … Read more >>.

Redknapp wants to sign Beckham on three-month deal

LONDON – Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has revealed that he would try to bring midfielder David Beckham to White Hart Lane during this month’s transfer window.

“We’ll contact the Los Angeles Galaxy to see if they will let him go out on loan Turn to and if David is up for a three-month deal then … Read more >>.

‘Top-level consistency’ will lead Arsenal to Premier League glory: Wenger

LONDON – Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger feels that this season’s Premier League will be won by the team that copes best with defeat as well as victory.

Wenger said that the current season is the most open the league has been for some time, and insisted that four or five teams can win it.

“It could be …. Original article  : ‘Top-level consistency’ will lead Arsenal to Premier League glory: Wenger.

Booze-bender leaves England stars with hangovers after Melbourne Test win

SYDNEY – Several England players have admitted that they celebrated victory in the fourth Ashes Test into the early hours of Thursday morning.

Off-spinner Graeme Swann posted a message on his Twitter page saying that he had a “headache and ropey guts” after the festivities.

The 31-year-old also praised England’s Barmy Army for the support provided to … Read more : Booze-bender leaves England stars with hangovers after Melbourne Test win.

Australia’s decision to omit Hauritz helped England in Ashes series: Swann

SYDNEY – England off-spinner Graeme Swann reckons that Australia’s decision to dump off-spinner Nathan Hauritz from the ongoing Ashes series has helped his team.

Swann believes that leaving out Hauritz for the Ashes opener in Brisbane was one of the best things Australia could have done for the visitors.

“I genuinely feel sorry for him because I … Read more : Australia’s decision to omit Hauritz helped England in Ashes series: Swann.

Paine plays down suggestions of becoming Oz captain

PERTH – Australian wicketkeeper Tim Paine has shrugged off former captain Steve Waugh’s suggestion that he could be a captain-in-waiting for the Test team.

With doubts surrounding the future of current skipper Ricky Ponting, Waugh had earlier discussed the possibility of including two wicketkeeper-batsmen in the team with a view towards grooming either Paine or Brad … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Paine plays down suggestions of becoming Oz captain.

Oz selector Hilditch, coach Nielsen should be sacked over Ashes loss: Slater

SYDNEY – Former Australian batsman Michael Slater has said that chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch and coach Tim Nielsen should be sacked following the national team’s failure to regain the Ashes from England.

“I’ve reached the point where I’ve lost faith in the decision-makers and there needs to be a big shake-up,” Slater wrote in an … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Oz selector Hilditch, coach Nielsen should be sacked over Ashes loss: Slater.

Clarke needs to be tougher batsman to win over Oz fans: Dean Jones

SYDNEY – Australian stand-in captain Michael Clarke must start making runs to win the hearts of Australian fans again, according to former batsman Dean Jones.

Clarke was named captain after Ricky Ponting was ruled out of the match after x-rays on his broken finger showed that the fracture had moved during this week’s fourth Test loss …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Honour sought for Malaysian Indian football coach

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s national football coach, K. Rajagopal, under whom the country won the AFF Suzuki Cup, should be honoured with Datukship, the traditional knighthood, the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) has urged.

Under Rajagopal, the country won the recent SEA Games in Laos and on Wednesday clinched the AFF Suzuki Cup for the …. Read the original article  : Honour sought for Malaysian Indian football coach.

Bollinger eyeing big impact in Sydney Ashes Test to hit back at critics

SYDNEY – Australian fast bowler Doug Bollinger has said that he would make a big impact if included in the final eleven for the fifth and final Test against England, starting in Sydney on Sunday.

Dumped after a tired display in Australia’s innings and 71 run loss in the second Test in Adelaide, Bollinger has been …. Source  : Bollinger eyeing big impact in Sydney Ashes Test to hit back at critics.

McGrath rules out Oz bowling coach job

SYDNEY – Former Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath has said that he is not interested in taking over the fast bowling coach’s role being vacated by Troy Cooley.

Cooley will step down after the fifth Test against England in Sydney to take up a role at Australia’s Centre of Excellence.

McGrath said that he is happy to … Read more »»».

Aussies can’t shy away from disappointing Ashes series performance: Haddin

SYDNEY – Australian stand-in vice-captain Brad Haddin reckons that his team’s Ashes performance will be considered unacceptable even if they win the fifth and final Test against England in Sydney to level the series.

When asked whether a win would atone for the series results so far, Haddin replied: “No it doesn’t.”

“I don’t think we can …. Source  : Aussies can’t shy away from disappointing Ashes series performance: Haddin.

Rio unveils Olympics logo for 2016

RIO DE JANEIRO – The organisers of the 2016 Olympic Games unveiled the official logo for the event at a glittering celebration New Year’s Eve.

The unveiling was staged at the legendary Copacabana beach, where 1.5 million people gathered to celebrate the arrival of the new year.
The logo shows three stylized human forms who …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Dhoni wants India to be disciplined in all three areas

DURBAN – India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni feels the team has to be disciplined in all three areas if they want to win the third Test against South Africa starting January 2 in Cape Town.

“Our bowling, our batting and our fielding have to be at their best if we hope to win the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Dhoni wants India to be disciplined in all three areas.

Cricket World Cup tickets will be affordable

DUBAI – Tickets for the 2011 cricket World Cup will be available at affordable prices, tournament director Ratnakar Shetty said Friday.

The World Cup, beginning Feb 19, 2011 will be co-hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
“The Central Organising Committee (COC), which is headed by ICC president Sharad Pawar, has taken several … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cricket World Cup tickets will be affordable.

England can replace ageing India as top Test side: Vaughan

LONDON – Former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan has tipped England to take over the position of No.1 Test side as India are an ageing side.

Vaughan feels the other top teams India, Sri Lanka and South Africa will lose players in the near future paving the way for England to claim the top Test … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : England can replace ageing India as top Test side: Vaughan.

Bollinger backed for a successful return

SYDNEY – Australian left-arm quick Doug Bollinger has been backed to make a successful return to Test cricket in the fifth and final Ashes Test against England starting Monday.

Dumped after a tired display in Australia’s big loss to England in Adelaide, Bollinger has been called back into the Test squad in place of injured …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Controlling spot-fixing “almost impossible” for PCB, ICC: Ijaz Butt

KARACHI – Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ijaz Butt believes it is impossible to completely eradicate spot-fixing, not only for the board but also for the International Cricket Council (ICC).

“To control the spot-fixing, especially prior to its happening, is almost impossible not only for the … Read more »».

No complaint made against drunk Steve Davis, says ICC

DURBAN – The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rubbished reports that Cricket South Africa (CSA) lodged a protest against umpire Steve Davis, who was allegedly found drunk by South African cricketers on the eve of the second Test match here against India.

Colin Gibson, ICC’s head of media and communications, reportedly said that the …. Read the original article  : No complaint made against drunk Steve Davis, says ICC.

Tiger Woods’ ex-missus celebrates first birthday post divorce

WASHINGTON – Tiger Woods’ former wife Elin Nordegren celebrated her first birthday on Saturday since divorcing the golfer. She turns 31.t has been reported that Nordegren spent the holidays in her native Sweden to visit her mother, politician Barbro Holmberg, reports RadarOnline.com.

2010 was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Swann questions Oz selectors decision to sack Nathan Hauritz

MELBOURNE – England spinner Graeme Swann has questioned the Australian selectors decision to sack Nathan Hauritz.

Swann, the highest wicket-taker last year, was so impressed by Hauritz that he studied video footage of the out-of-favour NSW spinner before …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Clarke determined to put his mark on Oz team in Sydney Test

MELBOURNE – Stand-in captain Michael Clarke is determined to take control of the team in the final Ashes Test at the SCG.

There will surely be surprises awaiting Clarke too across his first Test in charge, for while Ricky Ponting will remain … Original article on : Clarke determined to put his mark on Oz team in Sydney Test.

Aussies must follow Ponting to ‘leave all stress in locker’: Hussey

SYDNEY – Australian batsman Michael Hussey has advised his teammates to follow the example of injured captain Ricky Ponting, and keep a clear mind at the crease regardless of external pressure.

Australia currently trails the five-match Ashes series 2-1, with the final Test to be played … Read : Aussies must follow Ponting to ‘leave all stress in locker’: Hussey.

Malik, Akmal doubtful for Pakistani World Cup squad

KARACHI – Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik and wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal have so far been unable to obtain a clean chit from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and remain doubtful to feature in the World Cup squad.

The duo has failed to provide convincing answers to queries by PCBs integrity committee, well-placed sources were quoted … Read more »».

India elect to field against South Africa

CAPE TOWN – Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni won the toss and decided to field against South Africa in the third and last Test match at Newlands here Sunday.

India made one change in the side, bringing in Gautam Gambhir in place of Murali Vijay. South Africa have retained the same team.
India defeated South … Read this article on Gaea Times at : India elect to field against South Africa.

Afridi in Pakistan to discuss World Cup probables (Lead, Superseding earlier story)

KARACHI – Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi will meet board chairman Ijaz Butt at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) headquarters in Lahore Monday to finalise the probables for the 2011 World Cup and the 15-man squad for the ODI series in New Zealand.

Afridi arrived in Lahore Friday night from Christchurch after the end of the …. Source article  : Afridi in Pakistan to discuss World Cup probables (Lead, Superseding earlier story).

Hussey backs Clarke to be an aggressive skipper during Sydney Test

SYDNEY – Australian batsman Michael Hussey reckons that Michael Clarke would be an aggressive captain during the fifth and final Test of the Ashes series, starting in Sydney on Monday.

Clarke was named captain after Ricky Ponting was ruled out of the match after x-rays on his broken finger showed that the fracture had moved during … Read more >>>.

72 Australian players on list for Indian Premier League auction

SYDNEY – Fast bowlers Doug Bollinger, Shaun Tait, Peter Siddle, Ben Hilfenhaus and Stuart Clark are among the 72 Australian players whose nominations for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) auction have been accepted.

The auction for the fourth season of the tournament would be held in Bangalore on January 8 and 9.

It will be the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

English Premier League clubs vie to cash on Beckham’s popularity

LONDON – English Premier League clubs lining up to try to tempt football superstar David Beckham back home from America after the ace midfielder expressed his desire to play football in Europe.

It is his marketing potential, however, rather than his on-the-pitch skill that is attracting bidders.

Securing his services would be worth millions of pounds in …. Source article  : English Premier League clubs vie to cash on Beckham’s popularity.

Afridi in Pakistan to discuss World Cup probables

KARACHI – Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi will meet board chairman Ijaz Butt at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) headquarters in Lahore Monday to finalise the probables for the 2011 World Cup and also the 15-man squad for the ODI series in New Zealand.

Afridi arrived in Lahore Friday night from Christchurch after the end of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Afridi in Pakistan to discuss World Cup probables.

Pele backs Beckham’s Hollywood career

LONDON – Pele has thrown his support behind David Beckham who wants to kickstart his Hollywood career.

He even offered to appear alongside him on the big screen.

The Brazilian legend starred with Bobby Moore and Sylvester Stallone in football movie ‘Escape To Victory’ and he is thrilled the film is to be remade.

“I was very excited … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pele backs Beckham’s Hollywood career.

Beckham likely to join Tottenham Hotspur on three-month deal

LONDON – England and Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham has given the green light to a sensational three-month move to Tottenham Hotspur during this month’s transfer window.

Beckham had previously ruled out a return to the Premier League except with former club Manchester United.owever, Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp said: “He just said that he … Read more »»».

Khawaja, Beer to make debuts in Sydney Ashes Test

SYDNEY – Pakistan-born batsman Usman Khawaja and spinner Michael Beer will make their debuts for Australia in the fifth and final Test of the Ashes series, starting in Sydney on Monday.

Stand-in captain Michael Clarke said that Khawaja would bat at No.3 in place of injured captain Ricky Ponting.

Selectors have also chosen to use the left-arm … Read more »»».

Thousands cheer start of 2011 Dakar Rally in Buenos Aires

BUENOS AIRES – A crowd of several thousand gathered Saturday in central Buenos Aires to cheer on participants at the start of the 2011 edition of the prestigious Dakar Rally.

The offroad race is to take place in Argentina and Chile for the third consecutive year, after security problems drove it out of its original … Read more >>.

Manchester United go clear at the top after win at West Brom

LONDON – Manchester United moved three points clear at the top of the English Premier League, for a few hours at least, after they clinched a 2-1 win at West Bromwich Albion Saturday.

Wayne Rooney put United ahead inside three minutes with his first goal from open play since March but James Morrison volleyed West …. Source article  : Manchester United go clear at the top after win at West Brom.

Molik, Hewitt cement opening victory with Hopman mixed win

PERTH – Australia got off to a winning start Saturday as Lleyton Hewitt and Alica Molik won their opening tie 2-1 over Belgium thanks to a concluding mixed doubles victory.

Molik set up match point in the final tiebreak set with a winner followed by an error from young Belgian Ruben Bemelmans. Belgian Justine …. Source article  : Molik, Hewitt cement opening victory with Hopman mixed win.

Learnt a lot from Zaheer and Asif: Anderson

LONDON – England pace bowler James Anderson Saturday attributed a part of his success to seamers Zaheer Khan and Mohammad Asif and said he learnt a lot watching them.

Anderson has been in sparkling from in the Ashes series, picking up 17 wickets from four Tests with still a Test to go in Sydney starting …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Learnt a lot from Zaheer and Asif: Anderson.

Need to keep India under 250, says Smith

CAPE TOWN – South Africa captain Graeme Smith wants to put India under some pressure in the final Test starting here Sunday by bowling them out under 250.

“From our bowling point of view, we have kept India under 250 in three of the four innings. If we can maintain that – even get …. Source  : Need to keep India under 250, says Smith.

It’s a chance to create history, says Dhoni

CAPE TOWN – India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said Saturday that the team is geared up for a historic series win in South Africa when they face the hosts in the third Test at the Newlands here Sunday.

During the last series in 2006-07, India were faced with a similar situation when the series was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : It’s a chance to create history, says Dhoni.

I want to be captain England, says Cook

LONDON – England opening batsman Alistair Cook dreams of leading the team after full-time captain Andrew Strauss quits.

Cook has been groomed as Strauss’ heir apparent for the past two years and stood in for him during England’s Bangladesh tour last spring.
“If it comes my way, it would be a huge honour … Original article on : I want to be captain England, says Cook.

Coe backs Beckham as coach of British 2012 Olympic football team

LONDON – David Beckham has been backed as a potential coach of the British 2012 Olympic football team.

London 2012 organising committee chairman Sebastian Coe has said that Beckham can play a key role, despite having no say in picking a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Coe backs Beckham as coach of British 2012 Olympic football team.

Manchester City agrees to pay 27 million pounds for Dzeko

LONDON – Manchester City has agreed a 27 million pounds cut-price fee with Wolfsburg for highly-rated Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko.

Representatives from City thrashed out a deal with Steve McClaren’s struggling Bundesliga club over the weekend.

Dzeko is likely … Read more : Manchester City agrees to pay 27 million pounds for Dzeko.

Blackburn’s Indian owners left red-faced over Ronaldinho Twitter claim

LONDON – Brazil winger Ronaldinho has become the central figure in the latest embarrassment to befall Blackburn Rovers’ Indian owners, Venky’s, following a Twitter post suggesting that they had offered the AC Milan ace a six million pounds a year deal.

The statement on Venky’s Twitter page said: “Venky’s trying hard to get Ronaldinho for two … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Blackburn’s Indian owners left red-faced over Ronaldinho Twitter claim.

Ancelotti banking on transfer window to save Chelsea job

LONDON – Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is banking on a transfer hand-out from the club’s Russian owner Roman Abramovich to help him save his job.

Ancelotti is hanging on by his fingertips at Stamford Bridge, after reigning Premier League champions Chelsea slipped to fifth place in this season’s title race.

The Blues have won only once in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ancelotti banking on transfer window to save Chelsea job.

Afridi, Butt to discuss Pak World Cup probables, ODI squad for NZ series

LAHORE – Pakistan ODI captain Shahid Afridi will meet Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ijaz Butt at the PCB headquarters on Monday to finalise the probables for the 2011 World Cup as well as a 15-member squad for the one-day international series in New Zealand.

Afridi arrived in Lahore on Friday night for the meeting, after … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Afridi, Butt to discuss Pak World Cup probables, ODI squad for NZ series.

Seattle Seahawks Wins NFC West Division Title

SEATTLE (GaeaTimes.com)- Those who witnessed last night’s game between the Seattle Seahawks and the St.Louis Rams saw how the former crushed the Rams going on to snatch away the NFC West Division Title at the Quest Field on Sunday. It was undoubtedly Charlie Whitehurst whose outstanding performance on the field led the Seahawks to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Seattle Seahawks Wins NFC West Division Title.

Beckhham not a marketing tool, can buy any club he wants: Redknapp

LONDON – Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has said that ace midfielder David Beckham is so wealthy he could buy any Premier League club he wants.

Beckham’s pending loan move from LA Galaxy back to the Premier League has attracted criticism that he will be used as a marketing tool.

Redknapp is more determined to pull … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Beckhham not a marketing tool, can buy any club he wants: Redknapp.

Ashley Cole left ‘close to tears’ as Cheryl celebrates NY’s with new lover

LONDON – Love-rat Ashley Cole was left heartbroken after ex-wife Cheryl Cole jetted off with alleged lover Derek Hough to join a New Year’s Eve bash in South Africa.

They went to Cape Town hours after the ‘X Factor’ beauty exchanged Christmas gifts with the footballer.

Ashley was left shattered as pics of the pair confirmed their …. Original source  : Ashley Cole left ‘close to tears’ as Cheryl celebrates NY’s with new lover.

Strauss must stop ‘missing a lot tactically’ to gain world No.1 Test spot: Warne

SYDNEY – Australian spin legend Shane Warne reckons that Andrew Strauss must stop “missing a lot tactically” if England are to achieve their goal of becoming the world’s No.1 Test team.

Strauss became the first England captain to retain the Ashes in 24 years last week with an innings and 157-run victory over Australia in the … Read more : Strauss must stop ‘missing a lot tactically’ to gain world No.1 Test spot: Warne.

Premier League clubs must stand up against player power: Ferguson

LONDON – Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has claimed that striker Wayne Rooney’s contract stand-off last year has proved that the club would be “finished” if they ever allow players to become more important than the manager.

“The most important thing you have to have managing at our club, and I’m sure it is now … Read more : Premier League clubs must stand up against player power: Ferguson.

Ferguson has ‘no plans’ for retirement

LONDON – Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted that all thoughts of retirement are firmly off his agenda.

Having changed his mind on plans to retire at the end of the 2001-02 season, Ferguson has since claimed that he would not work beyond his 70th birthday.

However, with United now chasing a record 19th league … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ferguson has ‘no plans’ for retirement.

Sharapova starts year with New Zealand victory

AUCKLAND – Maria Sharapova survived a late change of opponent to advance to the second round of the ASB Classic as she defeated Italy’s Alberta Brianti 6-2, 6-3 Monday.

The Russian who last struck a competitive ball in early October in Beijing before ending her season early, faced Brianti as original opponent Carla Suarez Navarro …. Original source  : Sharapova starts year with New Zealand victory.

Randy Edsall Hired By Maryland Terrapins

ANNAPOLIS (GaeaTimes.com)- After twelve long years it is now the time for Randy Edsall to bid adieu to the Connecticut Huskies and move on to his new team. Yes the head coach of the Connecticut Huskies has been freshly roped in by Maryland Terrapins as their new head coach. The Terrapins recently fired their head …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Randy Edsall Hired By Maryland Terrapins.

Collingwood may retire after Sydney Ashes Test

SYDNEY – England batsman Paul Collingwood has suggested that the ongoing fifth and final Test of the Ashes series in Sydney may be his last.

The 34-year-old is in the middle of one of the worst form slumps of his career, as his tally in the Ashes series so far is a paltry 70 runs at …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Collingwood may retire after Sydney Ashes Test.

Hilditch supports out-of-form Hughes to be long-term Oz Test opener

SYDNEY – Cricket Australia’s chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch has backed Phillip Hughes of being a long-term Test opener for the national team despite his unsuccessful run in the ongoing Ashes series.

The 22-year-old has made just 83 runs at an average of 16.80 in five Test innings since being recalled to replace injured Simon Katich … Read : Hilditch supports out-of-form Hughes to be long-term Oz Test opener.

Pedro gives Barcelona 11th straight league win

MADRID – Barcelona opened up a five-point gap at the top of the Spanish Liga Sunday with a 2-1 home defeat of lowly Levante.

Barca’s goals were scored by Spain winger Pedro, both of them set up by right-back Dani Alves. Christian Stuani pulled back a late goal for Levante, but Barca had few problems …. Source  : Pedro gives Barcelona 11th straight league win.

Titleholder Sainz wins opening leg of Dakar Rally

CORDOBA – Defending champion Carlos Sainz of Spain won the opening leg of the 2011 Dakar Rally Sunday.

The former world rally champion completed the 788-km stage from Victoria to Cordoba one minute, 31 seconds ahead of his nearest rival, Stphane Peterhansel of France in a BMW.
Third place went to Nasser Al-Attiyah of Qatar, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Kallis steers South Africa to comfortable 232/4 (Roundup)

CAPE TOWN – A resolute Jacques Kallis remained unbeaten on 81, guiding South Africa to 232 for four on the rain-interuppted first day of the final and series decider cricket Test at Newlands here Sunday.

Kallis was batting at a watchful 81 while giving him company was Ashwell Prince (28) at stumps after an absorbing …. Original source  : Kallis steers South Africa to comfortable 232/4 (Roundup).

Scoreboard: India vs South Africa, Third Test, Day one

CAPE TOWN – Scoreboard at stumps on the first day of the third and final cricket Test between India and South Africa here Sunday:

South Africa: first innings
Alviro Petersen c Dhoni b Sharma 21
Graeme Smith lbw b Khan 6
Hashim Amla c Pujara b Sreesanth 59
Jacques Kallis batting 81
AB … Read more : Scoreboard: India vs South Africa, Third Test, Day one.

Khawaja looks like a Test cricketer: Border

SYDNEY – Australia debutant Usman Khawaja ‘looks like a Test cricketer’ according to former captain Allan Border.

An impressed Border predicted that Khawaja had the potential of having a bright future in the baggy green after an assured performance on debut in the Sydney cricket …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Khawaja will challenge Ponting for no 3 slot, says Waugh

SYDNEY – Former Australian captain Steve Waugh is so impressed with debutant batsman Usman Khawaja that he feels the Pakistan-born might put skipper Ricky Ponting’s regular one-down slot in danger.

Seeing Khawaja bat on the first day of the fifth Ashes Test against England in Sydney Monday, Waugh said the southpaw will challenge … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Khawaja will challenge Ponting for no 3 slot, says Waugh.

Blackburn Rovers make bid for Ronaldinho

LONDON – Blackburn owner Anuradha Desai said Tuesday that the club had made a 6.2-million-pound (9.6-million-dollar) bid to sign Ronaldinho from AC Milan.

After the departure of manager Sam Allardyce, Blackburn’s new owners, Venky’s, are understood to be keen to make a mark in the transfer market, and Sky Sports News claim the owner of …. Read the original article  : Blackburn Rovers make bid for Ronaldinho.

Anil Kumble pulls out of IPL auction

MUMBAI – Former India captain Anil Kumble has withdrawn from this weekend’s Indian Premier League (IPL) IV auction to be held in Bangalore, citing business commitments.

He had been among the 22 players with the highest reserve price of 400,000 dollars for the IPL …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Anil Kumble pulls out of IPL auction.

Mourinho eyes Man City striker Manu on loan

LONDON – Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is eyeing Manchester City’s striker Emmanuel Adebayor on loan.

Mourinho desperately needs a striker as Argentinian star Gonzalo Higuain is struggling with a back injury.debayor has started just two games for City this term and Real Madrid will try to get the 26-year-old …. Original article  : Mourinho eyes Man City striker Manu on loan.

Beckham left to wait for his dream loan move to Tottenham

LONDON – Ace midfielder David Beckham will have to wait for his dream move to Tottenham on loan as his American bosses are busy buying an NFL team.

Beckham was hoping to complete a three-month loan switch in time to face former club Manchester United on January 16. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Beckham left to wait for his dream loan move to Tottenham.

Clancy worried Crouch’s cheating would harm their unborn child

LONDON – Lingerie model Abbey Clancy has revealed that she is worried the stress brought on by fiance Peter Crouch cheating on her might harm their unborn child.

Clancy, 24, who is due to give birth in March, said she has suffered in silence after 29-year-old Crouch’s …. Read the original article  : here.

Spot-fixing case: Afridi will “stick” to his earlier statements at Doha hearing

LAHORE – Pakistan’s limited overs captain Shahid Afridi has made it clear that he will stick to his earlier statements recorded by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in the spot-fixing case, when he appears before the anti-corruption tribunal on January 6 in Doha, Qatar.

Afridi and Pakistan team coach Waqar Younis have been asked to appear … Original source on Gaea Times at : Spot-fixing case: Afridi will “stick” to his earlier statements at Doha hearing.

Blackburn’s Indian owners say they bid for Ronaldinho

LONDON – Blackburn’s Indian owners have claimed that they had made a 6.2 million pound bid for Ronaldinho.

Indian poultry firm Venky’s first posted news of their interest on their Facebook site on Sunday morning, but hours later director Venkatesh Rao ridiculed the story.

He insisted it was “not true at all” and there was no … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Blackburn’s Indian owners say they bid for Ronaldinho.

England has nose ahead of Australia in Sydney Test

SYDNEY – Chasing Australia’s 280 on day two of the final Ashes Test being played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) here, England were strongly placed at 167 runs for the loss of three wickets on Tuesday.

They had skipper Andrew Strauss to thank, as he hit a sparkling 58-ball 60 before being bowled by right-arm …. Read the original article  : here.

Hawk-Eye debuts at Chennai Open

CHENNAI – Linespersons at the Aircel ATP Chennai Open have come out on top following the introductory implementation of the Hawk-Eye electronic review system, a referral for line call challenges by players.

In all, 15 challenges were made against line calls in the four matches spread over 11 sets that were played on the Centre …. Source article  : Hawk-Eye debuts at Chennai Open.

Frank Beamer Suspends Six Players

MIAMI (GaeaTimes.com)- Last night six more players missed out the the game between Virginia Tech Hokies and Stanford at the Orange Bowl. These players were supposed to play for the Virginia Tech Hokies whom head coach Frank Beamer suspended from the game. On Sunday Frank Beamer announced that he had barred six Virginia Tech players …. Read the original article  : here.

Cristiano Ronaldo keeps Real Madrid close to Barcelona

MADRID – Real Madrid are again just two points behind Spanish leaders Barcelona, after a stormy 3-2 win Monday at local rivals Getafe.

League top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo led the charge with two goals for the whites, and Mesut Oezil scored the other goal. Dani Parejo and Juan Albin scored for Getafe, who stay in …. Read the original article  : Cristiano Ronaldo keeps Real Madrid close to Barcelona.

Becks’ 8-yr-old son features on Britain’s best-dressed men list

LONDON – Romeo Beckham, who is just eight-years-old, has made it to the list of Britain’s best-dressed men for the first time.

The former England captain’s middle son featured on number 26 while his dad finished ten places higher, at 16.

Other debutants on GQ magazine’s Best-Dressed List included Princes William and Harry while ‘Kick-Ass’ star Aaron … Original article on : Becks’ 8-yr-old son features on Britain’s best-dressed men list.

Ronaldo facing battle with his baby’s Brit mother over access rights

LONDON – Footballer Cristiano Ronaldo is allegedly facing pressure from the woman who had his baby to give her access to the child.

The 25-year-old former Manchester United player stunned the world last summer when he announced he had become a father.

That time he said his son would be raised under his ‘exclusive guardianship’ and it … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ronaldo facing battle with his baby’s Brit mother over access rights.

Don’t expect Tevez or Fabregas to stay at Man City or Arsenal: Ex-England star

LONDON – While Manchester United remain favourites for the 2010-11 Premier League title, both Manchester City and Arsenal are serious contenders because of the incredible number of surprise results involving the teams at the top, claims former England international Ian Wright.

According to Wright, Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas and his Manchester City counterpart Carlos Tevez …. Original source  : Don’t expect Tevez or Fabregas to stay at Man City or Arsenal: Ex-England star.

Man U as Premier League leaders is a surprise: Skipper Vidic

LONDON – With Manchester United having drawn seven of their nine away games, skipper Nemanja Vidic says he cannot believe that the club is the Premier League leader inspite of playing so badly.

“If someone had predicted we would lose this many points I’d have said we would not win the league, that’s for sure. Our … Read : Man U as Premier League leaders is a surprise: Skipper Vidic.

Kumble hangs up his boots, withdraws from IPL auction

MUMBAI – Legendary leg spinner and former India Test captain Anil Kumble has withdrawn from the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction in Bangalore later this week, it announced here Tuesday.

Kumble, who turned around the fortunes of IPL team Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), “cited business commitments, including his association with cricket and wildlife in various … Read more : Kumble hangs up his boots, withdraws from IPL auction.

Christina Scavo And Shannon O’Toole Sues Brett Favre

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Minnesota Vikings’ Quarterback Brett Favre has been sued yet again for sending sexually explicit text messages and surprisingly, this time, not by Jenn Sterger but by two massage therapists Christina Scavo and Shannon O’Toole. The media outlets reported that these two massage therapists sued Brett Favre, New York Jets team … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Christina Scavo And Shannon O’Toole Sues Brett Favre.

Sainz consolidates lead in Dakar Rally

SAN MIGUEL DE TUCUMAN – Titleholder Carlos Sainz consolidated his Dakar Rally lead Monday with a second stage win in the northeastern Argentine city of San Miguel de Tucuman.

The Spaniard Sainz, 47, racing with a Volkswagen Touareg, had already won the first stage Sunday.
On Monday, Sainz stretched his overall lead over Frenchman Stephane … Read more : Sainz consolidates lead in Dakar Rally.

Pakistan hopes National Games’ success will change sporting scenario

KARACHI – Pakistans sports chiefs are hoping to bring international sporting action back to the country after successfully hosting the National Games in Peshawar last month.

The Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) is planning to host various international events after it got much-needed confidence by staging the National Games, which saw the participation of some 4,000 …. Original article  : Pakistan hopes National Games’ success will change sporting scenario.

Lucky to still be in Chelsea job: Ancelotti

LONDON – Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has said that he is lucky to still be in a job at the club.

Ancelotti takes Chelsea to Wolves tonight having seen them earn just 10 points from the last 30 and drop out of the top four in the Premier League.

“I am a lucky man. I … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lucky to still be in Chelsea job: Ancelotti.

Warne backs Beer to retain Oz team position

SYDNEY – Former leg spinner Shane Warne has backed West Australian left-arm spinner Michael Beer to retain his position in the Australian Test side beyond the Ashes.

Warne, who presented Beer with his baggy green cap before the match, said that was unfortunate that Beer was n-balled by Umpire Billy Bowden after claiming what appeared to …. Original source  : Warne backs Beer to retain Oz team position.

Johnson lashes at Umpire Bowden’s no-ball referral in SCG Test

SYDNEY – Australia’s left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has criticized umpire Billy Bowden for referring a crucial no-ball that denied left-arm spinner Michael Beer his first Test scalp in the form of England opener Alastair Cook. He said Bowden should called it rather than asking the third umpire.

He felt that had Bowden taken the decision, … Read more : Johnson lashes at Umpire Bowden’s no-ball referral in SCG Test.

Man U’s Ferdinand raps Man City fans for selling Reds’ autographs

LONDON – Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand has blasted fans of rival club Manchester City for selling Reds’ autographs.

According to the Daily Express, Rio, 32, Tweeted: “Just got to training and there are City fans at the entrance getting Man Utd players autographs… what does that tell you tweeps!?!”

He said dealers on eBay were …. Source  : Man U’s Ferdinand raps Man City fans for selling Reds’ autographs.

India not afraid of Australia’s Socceroos: Bhaichung Bhutia

ABU DHABI – Indian soccer captain Baichung Bhutia insists that his side holds no fear of the star-studded Socceroos ahead of their Asian Cup opener in Abu Dhabi.

Ranked 142nd in the world, under-performing India are being tipped to be easy-beats in a strong Group C, which also includes South Korea and Bahrain, the Courier …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India not afraid of Australia’s Socceroos: Bhaichung Bhutia.

Warne’s talk show cut before final episode

MELBOURNE – Former Australian leg spinner Shane Warne’s much-hyped turn as a television chat show presenter has been cut short, with Channel 9 dumping the series early.ive episodes of Warnie were originally expected to air, however Nine has shelved plans for the final episode, due to be shown tomorrow night.

The show has struggled to find … Original source on Gaea Times at : Warne’s talk show cut before final episode.

Shane Warne’s final ‘Warnie’ chat show won’t go on air

SYDNEY – Former international cricketer Shane Warne’s final episode of ‘Warnie’ has been scrapped and will no longer be aired.

The Nine Network said that Australia’s poor performance in the Ashes Test is to be blamed for the fifth and final episode of the cricket-themed variety show being dumped.
The show was scheduled to be aired on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Shane Warne’s final ‘Warnie’ chat show won’t go on air.

Chinese man is first to be prosecuted of sexual assault of another male

NEW DELHI – A man in China, convicted of intentional injury for raping his male colleague, has been sentenced to one year in jail in what is believed to be the first prosecution of a sexual assault of a man.

Chaoyang district people’s court press officer Wang Liying revealed Zhang Hua, 42, not his real name, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chinese man is first to be prosecuted of sexual assault of another male.

Rooney’s younger brother to play in Major League Soccer

NEW YORK – Ace striker Wayne Rooney’s younger brother John will be playing in America’s Major League Soccer.

MLS spokesman Will Kuhns said that John Rooney has already signed a contract with the league.

In US football, players’ contracts are with the league, rather than the individual club, Xinhua reports.

The 20-year-old forward, however, will have to … Read more >>.

Tuffey replaces injured McKay in New Zealand test squad

WELLINGTON – Auckland seam bowler Daryl Tuffey has replaced the injured Andy McKay in the New Zealand squad for the first cricket test against Pakistan.

Tuffey’s promotion was confirmed today after Wellington left-armer McKay failed to recover from a side strain.

The first match in the two-test series starts at Hamilton on Friday, Stuff.co.nz reports. … Read more : Tuffey replaces injured McKay in New Zealand test squad.

McCullum determined to maintain 2010 form

WELLINGTON – Brendon McCullum, who scored more than 750 runs in six tests at an average of 75.8 last year, is hopeful of retaining last year’s form.

McCullum left wicketkeeping and dedicated himself to becoming an opening batsman, the result of which was a good tour of India and a career best score of 225 … Read more »»».

Steve Waugh immortalized in bronze at SCG

SYDNEY – A sculpture of Australia’s most successful captain, Steve Waugh, was unveiled as the 10th and final in a series of sporting icons at the SCG on Wednesday.

Waugh is shown holding aloft his bat and baggy cap in celebration of his 29th and perhaps most famous Test century, which he completed off the final … Read more : Steve Waugh immortalized in bronze at SCG.

Oz-England ODI to be Queensland floods fundraiser

SYDNEY – Cricket Australia has announced the one-day international against England in Brisbane on January 30 will be a fundraiser for those affected by Queensland’s floods.

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland confirmed the move on Wednesday during the fifth Ashes Test at the SCG, saying all funds raised will go to the Queensland Premier’s Flood … Original article on : Oz-England ODI to be Queensland floods fundraiser.

Beckham to live and play in Britain

LONDON – Ace midfielder David Beckham will return to live and play in Britain this week.

Los Angeles Galaxy and Beckham will have to make a decision sooner rather than later on his short-term future.

There are a host of Premier League clubs ready to take him on loan as he looks to start his preparation … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Beckham to live and play in Britain.

10 million reasons for not returning to Australia: Saker

MELBOURNE – England bowling coach David Saker, who is one of the main architects behind his team retaining the Ashes, has said that he has 10 million reasons for choosing not to return to Australia.

The former Bushrangers assistant coach, who left his six-year role to mastermind England pacers last year, has ruled out applying for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Cook, Bell tons put England in command in Sydney Test

SYDNEY – England opening batsman Alastair Cook and Ian Bell scored centuries on Wednesday as the visitors ran riot on day three of the fifth Ashes Test being played in Sydney.

Cook made 189 off 342 balls, while Bell scored 115 off 232 balls, his first Ashes ton, to help England finish the day at 488-7 …. Source  : Cook, Bell tons put England in command in Sydney Test.

Aussies tried to cheat Cook out of his ton

SYDNEY – England opener Alastair Cook racked up another Ashes century on the third day of the final Test, despite the best efforts of Australia to cheat him out of it when he was on 99.

Phillip Hughes, at short leg, tried to claim the ‘catch’, with captain Michael Clarke leading the vociferous Australian appeals, but … Read more : Aussies tried to cheat Cook out of his ton.

Ben Roethlisberger Engaged?

PITTSBURGH (GaeaTimes.com)- Some sources have come up with the unconfirmed reports that Ben Roethlisberger has got engaged recently. The lady with whom he has been hooked up with is Ashley Harlan, a resident of Hickory Township, near New Castle. Some sources have said that they are already engaged, while two of them have revealed … Original article on : Ben Roethlisberger Engaged?.

Sharapova struggles to win in Auckland

AUCKLAND – Top seed Maria Sharapova put in a patchy but a successful effort Wednesday for a quarter-final place at the ASB Classic while second-seeded holder Yanina Wickmayer was stretched to three sets.

Three other seeds crashed out in the pre-Australian Open event.
Sharapova kept her New Zealand debut week alive as she beat Czech …. Source article  : Sharapova struggles to win in Auckland.

Somdev gets Australian Open wildcard

MELBOURNE – India’s Somdev Devvarman has been given a wildcard in the 2011 Australian Open, starting Jan 17, and he will make his maiden appearance at the Melbourne Park.

Kai-chen Chang of Chinese Taipei is the other Asian player to be handed a wildcard, in the women’s singles, Tennis Australia announced Thursday.
Somdev, …. Source article  : Somdev gets Australian Open wildcard.

Tom Bradley – New Pittsburgh Coach?

PITTSBURGH (GaeaTimes.com)- Although it remains to be officially confirmed but latest rumors surfacing the Pittsburgh football team is that Tom Bradley is going to be the team’s new head coach. It is known that Pittsburgh authorities have been interviewing a list of probable candidates since Monday. A source close to the Pittsburgh camp revealed that … Read more : Tom Bradley – New Pittsburgh Coach?.

Manchester United can become new Invincibles: Nani

LONDON – Nani, who scored a winner against Stoke, has predicted that Manchester United can become the new Invincibles by going through the Premier League season unbeaten.

Arsenal became the original Invincibles when they went through the 38 games of the 2003-2004 season unbeaten.

Nani claimed that “something very special” is going to happen, and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Beckham free to join Tottenham

LONDON – LA Galaxy has given David Beckham the green light for a loan move to England, and the ace midfielder is hoping his loan deal to Tottenham will be completed by the end of the week.

Galaxy wants Spurs to cover his 80,000 pounds-a-week salary and agree to pay compensation if he picks up …. Original source  : Beckham free to join Tottenham.

Blatter facing challenge from Qatari rival to hold onto his position as FIFA
Chief

LONDON – FIFA president Sepp Blatter is facing a challenge for his position from his most likely opponent-Asian football supremo Mohamed Bin Hammam, the Qatari who delivered a stunning victory for his country in the contest to host the 2022 World Cup.

According to the Daily Express, Bin Hammam refused to rule out standing for president … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Blatter facing challenge from Qatari rival to hold onto his position as FIFA
Chief.

England three wickets away from Sydney Ashes Test glory

SYDNEY – England is only three wickets away from winning the Ashes series 3-1 following another brilliant performance by their bowlers on day four of the fifth and final Test against Australia being played in Sydney.

Australia were 213-7 at the close of the day’s play with Steve Smith (24 not out) and Peter …. Source  : England three wickets away from Sydney Ashes Test glory.

Warne’S 10-point plan to lift Aussies after Ashes humiliation

SYDNEY – Former Australian leg spinner Shane Warne has revealed a 10-point plan to improve his country’s cricketing fortunes after the Ashes debacle.

In an article for Fox Sports, it is as follows:

1. International players must play more domestic cricket. If you want to perform at the top then the foundations must be strong.

2. No …. Read the original article  : Warne’S 10-point plan to lift Aussies after Ashes humiliation.

Collingwood will retire from Test after Ashes series

SYDNEY – England batsman Paul Collingwood will retire from five-day cricket after the ongoing fifth and final Ashes Test but will continue playing in Twenty20 and 50-over format.

The 34-year-old Collingwood has scored just 83 runs this series and would be retiring with his head held high as England are just three wickets way from … Original source on Gaea Times at : Collingwood will retire from Test after Ashes series.

Paul Collingwood Bids Adieu To Test Cricket

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA (GaeaTimes.com)- After an illustrious cricketing career, English cricketer Paul Collingwood has announced that he would be retiring from Test cricket after the Ashes Test against Australia comes to an end. The 34-year-old ace batsman made the announcement on Thursday before the fourth day’s play in the Ashes ongoing series. Despite his retirement … Original source on Gaea Times at : Paul Collingwood Bids Adieu To Test Cricket.

Cook, Clarke defend Hughes after Botham’s ‘cheat’ call

SYDNEY – England opener Alastair Cook has leapt to the defence of Australian fielder Phillip Hughes after he was branded a cheat by former England all-rounder Ian Botham and the British press.

The accusations were launched after Hughes claimed a catch to dismiss Cook that, with the benefit of replays, was shown not to have carried …. Original source  : Cook, Clarke defend Hughes after Botham’s ‘cheat’ call.

TV decisions tarnishing Sydney Test outcome

SYDNEY – England opener Alastair Cook says players risked having egg on their face if they were foolish enough to bluff technology after two controversial decisions marred another day of dominance by England at the SCG yesterday.

But a large contingent of the 40,000-strong crowd disagreed with Cook, giving Ian Bell more jeers than cheers as …. Source article  : TV decisions tarnishing Sydney Test outcome.

Clarke demands ICC action on video referrals after Bell ‘edge’

SYDNEY – Australian captain Michael Clarke wants the International Cricket Council (ICC) to clarify the use of video referral technology after England’s Ian Bell dodged an “edge” to score a controversial century.

Bell had Aleem Dar’s caught-behind decision on 67 reversed when hotspot technology was inconclusive. Hotspot is a contentious issue and is not used …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Never seen Australian team going backwards so soon: Neil Harvey

SYDNEY – Drawing parallel with the situation when Kerry Packer robbed the Australian Test team of its top talent in the late 1970s, former captain Neil Harvey has said that he has never seen an Australian team go backwards so quickly.

Harvey chaired Australia’s selection panel during cricket’s greatest off-field upheaval when Packer’s privately contracted WSC [..] Read the original article: here.

Dickie Bird says UDRS ‘belittling’ umpires, holding the game up

LONDON – Former cricket umpire Dickie Bird reckons that the increased use of technology in international cricket will turn umpires into mere bystanders.

“Electronic aids have taken all the authority away from the umpire. It’s belittling the umpire and holding the game up,” Sky Sports quoted Bird, as saying.

“The umpire that used to make all the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Collingwood retires from Test cricket

LONDON – England batsman Paul Collingwood, who has struggled for runs in this Test series, has announced his retirement from Test cricket at the end of the fifth Ashes match in Sydney, but will continue to play the one-day game.

Collingwood, 36, announced his retirement after 68 Tests for England stretching over seven years.

He told his … Read more >>>.

Boxer Danny Green recovering in Perth hospital after appendix surgery

PERTH – World IBO cruiserweight champion Danny Green was recovering in a hospital in Perth after being rushed there following a near appendix burst.

The Daily Telegraph revealed that Green was raced from a family holiday to the hospital six days ago with severe stomach complaints.

It’s understood the boxer underwent emergency surgery to remove his appendix … Read more »».

MacGill favours Hauritz, says Beer clearly not the best spinner

MELBOURNE – Former spinner Stuart MacGill, who in 2004 bowled alongside Shane Warne, has said that Michael Beer is clearly not the best spinner the country has to offer, and favours Test duscard Nathan Hauritz to play in the Australian team.

“I don’t know that there would be anybody who would [think that] and I don’t …. Source  : MacGill favours Hauritz, says Beer clearly not the best spinner.

Toni Braxton ‘considering’ Playboy offer

NEW YORK – Toni Braxton has revealed that she is considering taking up an offer to pose partially nude for Playboy magazine.

Days after her upcoming reality series, “Braxton Family Values,” was announced, the singer is revealing that some of her other plans for 2011 may involve Playboy, reports the New York Daily News.

She tweeted Tuesday,”New …. Source  : Toni Braxton ‘considering’ Playboy offer.

South Africa’s No 2 Test ranking in jeopardy

CAPE TOWN – South Africa is in danger of losing their No 2 Test ranking position if they lose the third and final Test against India at Newlands.

ICC Media and Communications Manager, James Fitzgerald confirmed South Africa’s demotion by “a fraction of a ratings point”.

The Proteas will slip to No 3 in the ICC rankings [..] Read the original article: here.

CBI raids offices in CWG scam, another FIR filed

NEW DELHI – The CBI Thursday conducted raids on the offices of four firms that had dealings with the 2010 Commonwealth Games and also filed another police complaint against the Organising Committee in connection with inflated prices at which sports equipment were bought.

The raids were conducted on 10 places in the capital and its …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : CBI raids offices in CWG scam, another FIR filed.

Clarke quits T20 cricket to focus on Tests

SYDNEY – Australia’s Michael Clarke Friday quit Twenty20 cricket in the aftermath of the Ashes disaster and said he took the decision to focus on Tests.

Australia lost the Ashes 1-3 after they were bundled out for 281 in the second innings of the Sydney Test.
Clarke, too, had a horrible series, scoring a … Read more »»».

Rift between tainted Pak trio and PCB surfaces over spot-fixing case

LONDON – The spot-fixing case hearing against tainted Pakistani trio- Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Amir- began in Doha on Thursday amid signs of a widening rift between the accused players and their national board.

As the trio appeared for the first day of the five-day hearing by an …. Read the original article  : here.

Oz fast bowlers’ inability to swing the ball cost Ashes series: Mark Waugh

SYDNEY – Former Australian batsman Mark Waugh believes that the Australian fast bowlers’ inability to swing the ball during the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney cost them the match and the series.

Australia were dismissed for 280 and 281 in their two innings, while … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oz fast bowlers’ inability to swing the ball cost Ashes series: Mark Waugh.

I am giving myself another 2-3 days, says Bhaichung

DOHA – India football captain Bhaichung Bhutia does not want to lose hope even as his chances of playing in the AFC Asian Cup receded considerably Friday with the team management unwilling to take a chance with his fitness following his calf muscle injury.

Bhutia, however, wants to give himself time till Monday, the day … Read more >>>.

Freak solar storm could hit London Olympics

LONDON – With 9.3 billion pounds sitting on the 2012 London Olympics, organisers have every reason to worry that a peak solar storm could hit the event.

The solar flare could disrupt power supply, damage communication satellites and force planes to divert.
The games’ organisers have admitted to monitoring the situation carefully after the met … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Freak solar storm could hit London Olympics.

Steve Waugh should coach Australian team: Jones

MELBOURNE – Cricket Australia needs to draw on its former greats to restore it as a cricket power and former skipper Steve Waugh should take control of the Australian side, said former cricketer Dean Jones.

He said Australian cricket should find the money to lure Waugh as its next coach, and added this summer’s Ashes … Read : Steve Waugh should coach Australian team: Jones.

Cricket South Africa chief calls for ‘icon status’ for India-South Africa series

CAPE TOWN – Cricket South Africa (CSA) Chief Executive Gerald Majola has said that future Test series between India and South Africa should be granted icon status and consist of at least four matches.

The two countries have drawn the last three series’ between them (in 2008, 2010 and the just concluded series) 1-1.

“The high quality … Read : Cricket South Africa chief calls for ‘icon status’ for India-South Africa series.

Spot-fixing case: Beloff outlines tribunal’s hearing procedure against tainted trio

DUBAI – Anti-Corruption Tribunal Chairman Michael Beloff, QC, has outlined the procedure that would be adopted at the full hearing of the spot fixing case, scheduled to take place from 6 to 11 January, to adjudicate upon the ‘alleged breaches of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code for Players and Player Support Personnel’ by three Pakistan players- … Read more »»».

Ashes series-winning England comparable to world No. 1 India: Watson

SYDNEY – Australian all-rounder Shane Watson believes that the Ashes series-winning England team is on par with world No. 1 ranked India.

England wrapped up the five-match series 3-1 following their win in the fifth Test at the SCG by an innings and 83 runs.

The victory gave the visitors their first Test series win in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ashes series-winning England comparable to world No. 1 India: Watson.

Flower seen as mastermind of England’s Ashes series marvel

SYDNEY – England cricket coach Andy Flower is being seen as the mastermind behind the team’s Ashes series triumph against Australia.

According to the Sun, Flower has been calm, brave and methodical in plotting Australia’s downfall months before the team arrived in Perth on October 29.

He even overcame a brush with skin cancer on … Original source on Gaea Times at : Flower seen as mastermind of England’s Ashes series marvel.

Watson says Oz cricket ‘nowhere near the heights’ of 2006 Ashes win

SYDNEY – Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has said that Australian cricket is “nowhere near the heights” it was in 2006, when they had thrashed England 5-0 to win the last Ashes series at home.

When asked what state Australian cricket is in, Watson said: “Nowhere near the heights it was four years ago.”

Pressed on [..] Read the original article: here.

Cook is cricket’s very own Frank Lampard, says mentor Irani

LONDON – Prolific England opener Alastair Cook has got wholesome praise from former national team mate Ronnie Irani, who hailed him as cricket’s very own Frank Lampard because of his consistency, love for the game and professionalism.

Irani, who has been Cook’s mentor and skipper at Essex, reckons there is now nothing to choose between …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Cook is cricket’s very own Frank Lampard, says mentor Irani.

FA denies Redknapp, Beckham ‘dream team’ replacing Capello

LONDON – The Football Association has denied lining up Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp and ace midfielder David Beckham as an England dream team.

The pair had been tipped by the Daily Mirror to become in charge of the national team once Fabio Capello’s reign is over.

Redknapp is keen to bring Beckham on a short-term loan from … Read this article on Gaea Times at : FA denies Redknapp, Beckham ‘dream team’ replacing Capello.

Chelsea players want me to stay: Ancelotti

LONDON – Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has said he still has the backing of the players as his job is under scanner after winning just one game out of nine.

He is confident he can turn the ailing champions around despite trailing Manchester United, who have a game in hand, by nine points.

“I hope I can … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chelsea players want me to stay: Ancelotti.

Saker signs new contract, to be with England for next two Ashes series

LONDON – England’s bowling coach David Saker has signed a further three-year deal with the team that should guarantee his involvement in the next two Ashes series.

He should now be available for Australia’s visit to England in 2013 and an Ashes series in Australia that could be brought forward to the following 2013-14 winter.

Saker has … Original article on : Saker signs new contract, to be with England for next two Ashes series.

Liverpool boss Hodgson delivers farewell speech

LONDON – Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has not yet been sacked, but gave a farewell speech after Wednesday’s 3-1 shock defeat at Blackburn.

He has managed only seven wins but has nine defeats in his 20 games in charge, with two of the reverses coming against Premier League newcomers Blackpool and Wolves.

“Roy was very down …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Liverpool boss Hodgson delivers farewell speech.

India top Test rankings, England challenge Proteas

DUBAI – With the series in South Africa drawn, India maintained their top spot in the latest International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Test rankings. England, after the emphatic Ashes victory in Australia, are closing in on the Proteas for the second place.

India are comfortably ahead at 128 rating points with South Africa a distant … Read more : India top Test rankings, England challenge Proteas.

England completely outplayed Australia: Watson

SYDNEY – All-rounder Shane Watson has admitted that Australia was completely outplayed by England in the Ashes series Down Under.

“It’s not great, is it? In the end, we are doing our absolute best and it hasn’t been enough. We have been convincingly outplayed and we have let ourselves down,” The Sun quoted Watson, as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : England completely outplayed Australia: Watson.

Clarke says England ‘outplayed’ Australia in all facets of the game

SYDNEY – Stand-in Australian captain Michael Clarke has admitted that his team was completely outplayed by England in the five-match Ashes series.

Clarke’s comment comes after England sealed the series 3-1 by winning the fifth and final Test in Sydney by an innings and 83 runs

“It’s been a tough couple of months, to be … Original source on Gaea Times at : Clarke says England ‘outplayed’ Australia in all facets of the game.

Pakistan on top after day one of Hamilton Test against Kiwis

HAMILTON – Pakistan were on top in the opening Test against New Zealand, as the home team scrambled to 260-7 at the close of play on the first day at Seddon Park, Hamilton.

New Zealand’s innings was built around only two partnerships of note after Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl first.

Brendon McCullum (56) … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan on top after day one of Hamilton Test against Kiwis.

Razzaq disappointed over Pak players’ omission from IPL 4 auction

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq has expressed his disappointment over the exclusion of Pakistani cricketers from the auction list for the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

It is noteworthy that no Pakistani player was included in the last …. Read the original article  : here.

England expects tough challenge from world No.1 Aussies in ODI series: Flower

SYDNEY – England coach Andy Flower has said that his team expects a tough challenge from the world No.1 ranked Australians during the upcoming seven-match ODI series.

Flower stressed that England had little time to celebrate their 3-1 Ashes series triumph, as they now have …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Cotton Bowl Won By Tigers

ARLINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Cotton Bowl, that took place in Dallas Cowboy stadium in Arlington, on January 7, made the LSU Tigers the winner of the match. At the same time, the host team Texas A&M, lost the match, as it ended with a huge margin of 41-24.
The defeated team’s defensive lineman Lucas Patterson agreed that … Original article on : Cotton Bowl Won By Tigers.

Les Miles- New Michigan Coach?

ARLINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Is Les Miles going to the new Michigan Wolverines coach? This is the latest buzz in the Louisiana State University Tigers camp after the team lost the Cotton Bowl last night to the Texas A&M. Texas A&M dashed the hopes of the Tigers as they crushed them by a score of 41-24 last …. Source  : Les Miles- New Michigan Coach?.

IPL-4: No takers for Ganguly, Gayle; Gambhir gets record $2.4m (Afternoon lead)

BANGALORE – There were no takers for former India captain Sourav Ganguly and West Indian hard-hitter Chris Gayle while Gautam Gambhir fetched a record $2.4 million as corporate honchos, Bollywood stars and cricket experts gathered to value players at the Indian Premier League (IPL) season four auction here Saturday.

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan’s Kolkata … Original source on Gaea Times at : IPL-4: No takers for Ganguly, Gayle; Gambhir gets record $2.4m (Afternoon lead).

Great to be a part of home team, says Sreesanth

BANGALORE – India’s temperamental fast bowler Shantakumaran Sreesanth was happy to be a part of his home team as the Kochi franchise bought him for $900,000 during the players’ auction for Indian Premier League (IPL) season four here Saturday.

“Thanks a lot for ur support and wishes..gr8 to be in home team..kochi,” Sreesanth tweeted.
… Original article on : Great to be a part of home team, says Sreesanth.

Ganguly, Gayle go unsold at IPL-4 auction

BANGALORE – Former Kolkata Knight Riders skippers Sourav Ganguly and Chris Gayle were the only two players to go unsold in the first two sessions of the Indian Premier League-4 auction here Saturday.

Both Ganguly and Gayle, former West Indies skipper and a big hitter, were part of Knight Riders in the first three … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ganguly, Gayle go unsold at IPL-4 auction.

IPL-4: Ganguly, Gayle unsold; Gambhir fetches record price

BANGALORE – India’s opening batsman Gautam Gambhir was bought for a record $2.4 million by Kolkata Knight Riders during the players’ auction for the Indian Premier League season four here Saturday.

However, former Knight Riders skippers Sourav Ganguly and Chrish Gayle went unsold.
Following are the first 27 players, who were auctioned in the first …. Source article  : IPL-4: Ganguly, Gayle unsold; Gambhir fetches record price.

Sourav Ganguly goes unsold at IPL-4 auction

BANGALORE – Former India captain Sourav Ganguly became the first player to be unsold in the players’ auction for the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) here Saturday.

Ganguly, who was in Kolkata Knight Riders, had a base price of $400,000. He failed to attract any buyer at the auction being held at … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sourav Ganguly goes unsold at IPL-4 auction.

IPL-4 auction: Gambhir, Pietersen among first lot sold

BANGALORE – Following are the first nine players auctioned for the Indian Premier League (IPL) season four here Saturday.

Gautam Gambhir (India): Kolkata Knight Riders, $2.4 million
Tillakaratne Dilshan (Sri Lanka): Royal Challengers Bangalore $6,50,000
Zaheer Khan (India): Royal Challenger Bangalore, $900,000
Ross Taylor (New Zealand): Rajasthan Royal, $1 million
Yusuf Pathan (India): Kolkata [..] Read the original article: here.

Gambhir sold to Knight Riders for record $2.4 mn

BANGALORE – India’s opening batsman Gautam Gambhir was the first player to be sold in the players’ auction for Indian Premier League (IPL) season four, fetching a record $2.4 million by Kolkata Knight Riders.

Gambhir, who was part of the Delhi Daredevils for the last three years, had a base price of $200,000. The bidding …. Source article  : Gambhir sold to Knight Riders for record $2.4 mn.

Cricketers auction for IPL 4 begins in Bangalore

BANGALORE – Seated eight to a table at the over 7,000 sq ft pillar-less Mysore Hall of ITC Royal Gardenia Hotel here, business leaders and film stars Saturday began picking up cricketers for the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) fourth season.

The IPL-4 beginning April 8 will see 10 teams and 74 matches in the shortest …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Cricketers auction for IPL 4 begins in Bangalore.

IPL-4 players’ auction begins

BANGALORE – The Indian Premier League (IPL) players’ auction for the fourth edition began Saturday at the ITC Royal Gardenia Hotel here.

“We have an interesting scheduled chalked out. It will be an exciting season. We promise to give you a fantastic game. I want to congratulate all owners franchisee for the auction,” IPL chairman … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : IPL-4 players’ auction begins.

Manchester City signs Dzeko

LONDON – Manchester City confirmed Friday that they have signed striker Edin Dzeko from Wolfsburg for 27 million pounds ($42 million).

The 24-year-old Bosnian has agreed to a four-and-a-half-year deal and could make his debut Jan 15 against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
“It has been a long time that I have been linked with the club going … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Manchester City signs Dzeko.

Fulham snap up Sidwell

LONDON – Fulham manager Mark Hughes Friday said he believes he can rejuvenate the career of Steve Sidwell after completing his purchase from Aston Villa.

The former Chelsea midfielder turned down moves to Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United to sign a six-month deal.
“His intention was that he always wanted to come to Fulham …. Original article  : Fulham snap up Sidwell.

Sainz wins stage, Coma struggles in Dakar Rally

ARICA – Carlos Sainz consolidated his lead in the car section of the Dakar Rally with a win Friday in the sixth stage, while fellow Spaniard Marc Coma struggled but continued to lead the motorcycle division.

Titleholder Sainz managed to gain a few seconds against Volkswagen team-mate Nasser al-Attiyah and now holds a 2:42-minute lead … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sainz wins stage, Coma struggles in Dakar Rally.

Khumalo completes Spurs switch

LONDON – Tottenham Hotspur Friday completed the transfer of Bongani Khumalo from South African side Supersport United on a four-and-a-half year deal.

Khumalo impressed during a trial last July persuading Tottenham to pay a fee of 1.5 million pounds ($2.3 million).
The defender, who was born in Swaziland, played for South Africa during the World …. Read the original article  : here.

Blues close to double deal

LONDON – Birmingham City agreed a deal Friday to sign Tottenham winger David Bentley on loan for the rest of the season and have also had an offer accepted for Rangers striker Kenny Miller.

Bentley will have a medical over the weekend.
Birmingham agreed a 600,000-pound ($950,000) fee for Miller, who must also have a … Read : Blues close to double deal.

Coaches feel sad for Qatari people after Asian Cup loss

DOHA – Both coaches felt the same way after Qatar slumped to a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Uzbekistan in the opening match of the Asian Cup.

The hosts will now find it very difficult to advance from Group A, which also includes China and Kuwait.
Qatar coach Bruno Metsu said that he feels very bad … Read : Coaches feel sad for Qatari people after Asian Cup loss.

Captain Djeparov believes Uzbekistan can win Asian Cup

DOHA – Captain Server Dejparov, who scored the second goal in Uzbekistan’s 2-0 defeat of Qatar in the opening game of the Asian Cup Friday, believes his side can go on to win the tournament.

Uzbekistan’s opening goal in the Group A match was scored by Odil Akhmedov.
Djeparov, who plays his club football in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Captain Djeparov believes Uzbekistan can win Asian Cup.

Flower says Anderson, Swann snub by IPL priceless for England

SYDNEY – England coach Andy Flower has said the snubbing by the Indian Premier League (IPL) of fast bowler James Anderson and off-spinner Graeme Swann is a good news for him.

Anderson and Swann were unsold in the first round of IPL auction held in Bangalore on Saturday.

“The risk … Read more >>.

Kumble plays important role in building RCB: Mallya

BANGALORE – Royal Challengers Bangalore owner Vijay Mallya said Sunday that former India captain Anil Kumble plays an important role in building the team for the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Kumble, who lead Royal Challengers in the last two editions, is now a mentor for the team and Mallya … Read more »»».

KKR looking at options to use Ganguly

BANGALORE – Kolkata Knight Riders might have dropped their favourite son Sourav Ganguly from the team for the Indian Premier League (IPL)-4 but Chief Executive Officer Venky Mysore said they are willing to take him on board as a mentor the way Royal Challengers Bangalore did with Anil Kumble.

This, of course, he said will … Read more »»».

Ice-skating champ Johnny Weir has no time for sex

NEW YORK – Ice-skating champ Johnny Weir says he has no time for sex.

The 26-year-old has his hands full with skating, judging contestants on TV, recording music and penning books.

“People say I’m ashamed of myself for not talking about my … Read : Ice-skating champ Johnny Weir has no time for sex.

Former Kiwi Mr. Dependable Elliot keen to make it to WC squad

WELLINGTON – Till under two years ago, Grant Elliot was touted as the most dependable man in New Zealand cricket. He was the rock in a Black Caps batting order that was, at best, inconsistent, but in 2011, he is hoping for a berth in the …. Original source  : Former Kiwi Mr. Dependable Elliot keen to make it to WC squad.

‘Cricket Australia has to overhaul a flawed system’: Ian Chappell

MELBOURNE – Former Australian batsman Ian Chappell has urged Cricket Australia to instigate an independent review of all cricketing bodies in the country following the 3-1 Ashes series defeat to England.

“Cricket Australia has to overhaul a flawed system that was once the envy of … Read : ‘Cricket Australia has to overhaul a flawed system’: Ian Chappell.

Aussies set to unleash Lee, Tait in opening Twenty20 against England

ADELAIDE – Australian fast bowler Brett Lee is looking forward to joining forces with fellow fast bowler Shaun Tait in the opening Twenty20 international against England at Adelaide Oval on Wednesday.

“I can’t deny it’s a bit of fun to be bowling when …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Paine plays down suggestions of becoming Oz captain

PERTH – Australian wicketkeeper Tim Paine has shrugged off former captain Steve Waugh’s suggestion that he could be a captain-in-waiting for the Test team.

With doubts surrounding the future of current skipper Ricky Ponting, Waugh had earlier discussed the …. Original source  : Paine plays down suggestions of becoming Oz captain.

‘Oz Olympic champ Thorpe undergoing training, comeback possible’

SYDNEY – Australian multiple Olympic champion Ian Thorpe is reportedly training in the pool and could be a part of the 2012 London Olympics, his manager David Flaskas said.

Flaskas said the 28-year-old player, who retired from swimming in 2006, has been training recently, but added that his to return to competitive swimming …. Read the original article  : ‘Oz Olympic champ Thorpe undergoing training, comeback possible’.

‘Australia can’t progress with Johnson in Test side’

SYDNEY – As Australia looks to rebuild following the humiliating Ashes defeat to England, the first step should be “to move ahead without” fast bowler Mitchell Johnson, according to Herald Sun journalist Jon Anderson.

Speaking on Fox Sports’ ‘The Last Word’, Anderson said that Australia … Read : ‘Australia can’t progress with Johnson in Test side’.

India forced to play Rafi in Asian Cup opener

DOHA – Forward Sushil Singh is ruled out of the first two matches of the AFC Asian Cup football tournament, having been suspended on disciplinary grounds, leaving chief coach Bob Houghton with no option but to include I-league top scorer Mohammad Rafi of Churchill Brothers in the 23-member Indian squad.

Sushil was suspended for elbowing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India forced to play Rafi in Asian Cup opener.

IPL auction: From a T20 start to tactical bidding (Afternoon Lead)

BANGALORE – After a rollicking Twenty20-like start Saturday, the Indian Premier League (IPL) players’ auction saw more unsolds than bought with owners resorting to tactical bidding without much money left in their purses for the second and concluding day of the auction.

Like the opening day, the owners again thought it wise to go for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

New York Jets Beats Indianapolis Colts By 17-16

INDIANAPOLIS (GaeaTimes.com)- Last night, the New York Jets successfully paved their way for the AFC semi-finals after they clinched victory against the Indianapolis Colts beating them by a score of 17-16. As evident from the results, it is not hard to guess that the night saw a nail-biting victory for the Jets who were hell … Read this article on Gaea Times at : New York Jets Beats Indianapolis Colts By 17-16.

New Zealand Cricket plays down Vettori’s health concerns

Auckland, Jan 9ANI): New Zealand Cricket has denied suggestions that captain Daniel Vettori could be suffering from a serious illness despite feeling lethargic for several days.

Vettori looked a shadow of himself in the field in Hamilton, as rumours about his health threatened to overshadow the first Test against Pakistan.

Team manager Dave Currie later confirmed …. Read the original article  : New Zealand Cricket plays down Vettori’s health concerns.

Steve Waugh for action only after Ashes loss emotions settle down

MELBOURNE – Former Australia captain Steve Waugh has called for patience in any review of Australian cricket, saying emotions need to settle down before anything is decided.

“It needs clear thinking and clear heads and just the hysteria right now, once that settles down, there’s some planning ahead,” Fox Sports quoted Waugh, as saying.

“Look at …. Read the original article  : here.

England outplayed Australia in every department: Botham

LONDON – Former England all-rounder Ian Botham has scoffed at Cricket Australia’s claims that there were positives to be taken from the humiliating Ashes series loss.

Botham said Australia had a mountain to climb with its cricket.

“I keep hearing from the Australian camp that they’ve done really well. God help you when you do badly then, …. Read the original article  : England outplayed Australia in every department: Botham.

England must dominate all forms of game to be declared a great team: Pringle

SYDNEY – One Ashes success, or even two in a row as it now is, does not a great team make and, having conquered Australia, captain Andrew Strauss must now set his sights on England beating other teams in other tournaments, feels former player and now Telegraph columnist Derek Pringle.

The World Cup, in India, …. Original article  : England must dominate all forms of game to be declared a great team: Pringle.

White ‘pinching himself’ after 1.1 million dollar IPL windfall

MELBOURNE – Australian all-rounder has said that his new 1.1 million dollar contract with Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Deccan Chargers has come as a surprise to him.

The 27-year-old, who was installed as Australia’s Twenty20 captain on Friday, was bagged by Deccan Chargers in an auction held in Bangalore on Saturday.

“Obviously it sits pretty well. …. Read the original article  : here.

‘Babes and Bikinis’ dominate England players Ashes series win celebrations

SYDNEY – England cricketer stars went the whole hog in celebrating their Ashes series triumph in Australia, and according to Mark Chipperfield, a journalist and travel writer, cocktail waitresses and Hollywood stars were present at the event that lasted more than the duration of Australia’s two innings in the just concluded Sydney Test.

Middle-order batsmen Kevin … Read more : ‘Babes and Bikinis’ dominate England players Ashes series win celebrations.

Pakistan routs ’self-destructing’ Kiwis by 10 wickets to win Hamilton Test

HAMILTON – Pakistan thrashed New Zealand by 10 wickets in the opening Test held at the Seddon Park in Hamilton.

It came after the Black Caps self-destructed in their second innings on day three on Sunday by being all out for just 110, Stuff.co.nz reports.

Pakistan had a simple task of scoring 19 runs to … Read more : Pakistan routs ’self-destructing’ Kiwis by 10 wickets to win Hamilton Test.

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.

The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Spot-fixing case: Former ICC chief feels suspended Pak trio will be “harshly punished”.

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.

Selectors pick three spinners for India's World Cup squad

CHENNAI - India’s cricket selectors Monday ignored middle-order batsman Rohit Sharma and fast bowler Sreesanth, but included three spinners in the 15-member squad for the World Cup starting Feb 19 in the sub-continent.

The exclusion of Sharma came as a major surprise as selectors picked both off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and leg-spinner Piyush Chawla, ahead of ... Read more »»».

Australian Open: Somdev goes down fighting in opening round

MELBOURNE - India’s Somdev Devvarman went down fighting to Spain’s Tommy Robredo 6-7(4), 3-6, 4-6 in the first round of the Australian Open men’s singles here Monday.

Somdev, ranked 108, was making his debut at the tournament after been given a wildcard.
With his loss, India’s challenge in men’s singles is over.
.... Source article on Gaea Times at  : Australian Open: Somdev goes down fighting in opening round.

Spinners will play a major role in World Cup: Srikkanth

CHENNAI - Spinners will play a major role in the World Cup to be held in the sub-continent from Feb 19, Krishnamachari Srikkanth, chairman of the cricket board’s selection committee, said Monday, justifying the inclusion of three tweakers in the Indian squad for the quadrennial event.

“Spinners will play a major role in the ... Read more »».

PCB's 'no-media interaction' policy paying dividends for the board

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan Cricket Board’s new policy that gags its officials, national players and team management from giving out reckless statements in the media or leaking out inside information appears to have started to pay dividends for the board.

Last month, PCB chairman Ijaz Butt had signed a new order, which specifically made it clear ... Original source on Gaea Times at : PCB’s ‘no-media interaction’ policy paying dividends for the board.

Pakistan cricket to benefit from players' exclusion from IPL: Waqar Younis

WELLINGTON - Pakistan cricket coach Waqar Younis feels the fact that his players will be missing from the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) Twenty20 tournament is good for Pakistan cricket.

“It’s not good for cricketers, I guess, because they are losing out on the financial side, but I always think that, in a way, it ... Original article on : Pakistan cricket to benefit from players’ exclusion from IPL: Waqar Younis.

Watson batted with the vigour needed to lift tense comrades: Roebuck

SYDNEY - Australian all-rounder Shane Watson had dragged the team from wretchedness and apparently inevitable defeat to memorable victory in the first ODI against England, noted cricket commentator Peter Roebuck has said.

Roebuck’s remark comes after Watson scored a career-best 161 not out as Australia defeated England by six wickets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Selectors announce 15-member India squad for World Cup

CHENNAI - India’s cricket selectors Monday selected a 15-member squad for the World Cup starting Feb 19 in the sub-continent.

Squad: Mahendra Singh Dhoni (captain/wicketkeeper), Virender Sehwag (vice captain), Sachin Tendulkar, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Virat Kohli, Yusuf Pathan, Harbhajan Singh, Praveen Kumar, Zaheer Khan, Ashish Nehra, Munaf Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin and Piyush ... Read more »».

Qatar's team of many nations marches on

DOHA - While midfielder Lawrence Quaye was born in the Ghanian capital of Accra and started his career with Liberty Professionals, Sebastian Soria was born in the Uruguayan town of Paysandu and first made a name for himself as a player with Liverpool Montevideo.

What combines the two is that they are team-mates.
That, in .... Source  : Qatar’s team of many nations marches on.

Aussies must embrace criticism to revive on-field fortunes: Kasprowicz

SYDNEY - Australia must embrace criticism and hard-core discipline to revive its on-field fortunes following the recent Ashes disaster, former fast bowler Michael Kasprowicz has said.

“In the great teams there is a core discipline. There’s rules, consequences and every environment needs them. You need to have a healthy amount of respect for your teammates and [..] Read the original article: here.

My mind and heart has been more in flood-hit Queensland than cricket, says Watson

MELBOURNE – Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has said that his thoughts have been on the Queensland floods rather than taking on England in the ongoing seven-match ODI series.

Watson’s comment comes after he scored a career-best 161 not out to help Australia win the opening ODI at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday.

The … Original article on : My mind and heart has been more in flood-hit Queensland than cricket, says Watson.

Murray to face convicted drug cheat Karol Beck in Australian Open

MELBOURNE – British tennis star Andy Murray will kick off his Australian Open campaign against convicted drug cheat Karol Beck on Tuesday.

Beck was banned for two years after testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs during a 2005 Davis Cup match.

It will be the first encounter between Murray and Beck, who is currently ranked 104 but reached … Read : Murray to face convicted drug cheat Karol Beck in Australian Open.

Srikanth, selectors in Chennai to select India’s World Cup 2011 team

CHENNAI – The chairman of the national cricket selection committee, K Srikanth and the three other members of the committee have arrived here to pick the final squad for World Cup 2011.

The National selectors will select the 15-member Team India out of 30 probables.

According to the sources, selectors will select eight to nine batsmen and … Read more : Srikanth, selectors in Chennai to select India’s World Cup 2011 team.

Vettori endorses Stephen Fleming for Team India coaching position

WELLINGTON – New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori has said that Stephen Fleming would be ideal for the soon to be vacant Team India coaching position.

Fleming has been named as a front-runner to replace current Indian coach Gary Kirsten, once he steps down after the upcoming 50-over World Cup.

According to reports, the former New Zealand captain’s [..] Read the original article: here.

Oz opener Hughes says he won’t forgive Botham for calling him a ‘cheat’

SYDNEY – Australian opener Phillip Hughes has said that he was quite shocked when he was told by skipper Michael Clarke that former England great Ian Botham had called him a cheat for claiming a catch at short-leg of the bat of England opener Alastair Cook.

He said it was unlikely that he would forgive Botham … Read more »»».

Mahesh Bhupathi To Wed Lara Dutta

MUMBAI, (GaeaTimes.com)- The latest buzz in the B-town is about ace tennis player Mahesh Bhupathi and actress Lara Dutta who are all set to tie the knot. The wedding plans were revealed by the couple on television in the popular talk show “Koffee With Karan” as they engaged in a conversation with host Karan Johar. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mahesh Bhupathi To Wed Lara Dutta.

Sharapova starts with Australian Open victory

MELBOURNE – Maria Sharapova began her bid for a second Australian Open title with a second-set comeback to post an opening-day victory over Thai veteran Tamarine Tanasugarn 6-1, 6-3 Monday.

The three-time Grand Slam winner swept the opening set but trailed 1-3 in the second before finally claiming the win.
The Russian 14th seed, who …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sharapova starts with Australian Open victory.

Liverpool held by Everton as EPL derbies end all square

LONDON – Liverpool and Merseyside rivals Everton shared four goals as three English Premier League (EPL) derby matches ended in draws.

Dirk Kuyt levelled from the penalty spot for Liverpool after Everton had come from behind at half-time with two quick goals at Anfield.
Kenny Dalglish’s first home match in charge since replacing Roy Hodgson …. Read the original article  : here.

AC Milan slow down pace at top of Serie A

ROME – Ruben Olivera’s volley levelled a prodigious lob from Zlatan Ibrahimovic as minnows Lecce rallied to clinch a 1-1 draw against Serie A leaders AC Milan.

The Swedish star profited from mild opposition from two Lecce defenders at the start of the second half and stunned goalkeeper Antonio Rosati with a drooping shot from …. Read the original article  : AC Milan slow down pace at top of Serie A.

Three-goal Hanover defeat Frankfurt to move second

FRANKFURT – Hanover scored twice in the first half and added a third late on to defeat Eintracht Frankfurt 3-0 and move second in the Bundesliga.

Norway striker Mohammed Abdellaoue opened the scoring in the 15th minute when he found the net on the edge of the area, and Christian Schulz at the near post …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Three-goal Hanover defeat Frankfurt to move second.

Hamburg reject Van Nistelrooy move to Real Madrid

HAMBURG – SV Hamburg has told striker Ruud van Nistelrooy he won’t be allowed to leave the club for Real Madrid.

“Our decision stands – he is staying. Van Nistelrooy has to fulfil his contract,” sports boss Bastian Reinhardt said Sunday.
The 34-year-old Dutch striker had told Hamburg that Real wants him to return to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak-New Zealand test set for exciting final day finish

WELLINGTON – Pakistan needs 274 runs on the final day to win the second Test against New Zealand after bowling the hosts out for 293 late on the fourth day.

Umar Gul ripped through New Zealand’s tail, taking two wickets in two balls, as the hosts lost four wickets for seven runs late on Tuesday. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pak-New Zealand test set for exciting final day finish.

Malaysian PM applauds ethnic Indian player via Twitter

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has congratulated national hockey goalkeeper and ethnic Indian S. Kumar on being named Asia’s best player for 2010 – through a Twitter message.

Kumar is the first Malaysian to win the award.
Kumar, 32, who is from Tampin, Negeri Sembilan state, was presented the AHF (Asian … Original article on : Malaysian PM applauds ethnic Indian player via Twitter.

Marsh to replace injured Hussey in next three ODIs

SYDNEY – Left-hand batsman Shaun Marsh will replace injured Michael Hussey in Australia’s squad for the next three One-day Internationals (ODI) against England.

Hussey injured his hamstring during the first ODI in Melbourne which the home team won by six wickets. The two teams next meet in Hobart Jan 21.
Earlier in the …. Original article  : Marsh to replace injured Hussey in next three ODIs.

Hue Jackson – New Oakland Raiders Coach

OAKLAND (GaeaTimes.com)- Hue Jackson for the first time will be assuming the role of a head coach after the Oakland Raiders decided to choose him as the team’s new head coach. On Monday evening the Oakland Raiders announced that they have chosen the team’s offensive co-ordinator for the last season Hue Jackson to lead the …. Original source  : Hue Jackson – New Oakland Raiders Coach.

Kiwi TV journalist continues to ’stalk’ Maria Sharapova

MELBOURNE – A New Zealand television journalist once again disrupted Maria Sharapova’s post-match media conference after the tennis star accused him of stalking her.

This is the third time the man has appeared when Sharapova was slated to speak during the past two weeks, reports Perth now.

The journalist first bobbed up at the Auckland Open then … Original article on : Kiwi TV journalist continues to ’stalk’ Maria Sharapova.

Johnson’s selection puts pressure on Oz coaching staff: Blewett

MELBOURNE – Fast bowler Mitchell Johnson’s inclusion in Australia’s World Cup squad has placed added pressure on Johnson and the coaching staff to ensure he’s up to the task, according to Greg Blewett.

Speaking to foxsports.com.au following his comments on Inside Cricket that Johnson should be overlooked for the trip to the subcontinent, Blewett said …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Zenyatta: Horse Of The Year

MIAMI (GaeaTimes.com)- Zenyatta and her owners have been waiting for this moment for the last two years. Despite her consecutive victories, in all the preceding races, Zenyatta always ended up being the runner ups in the last two Eclipse Awards. However, no one knew that although she lost her race in the November Breeders’ …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Zenyatta: Horse Of The Year.

ICC endorses first class Test match played in ‘day and night’ format in Pakistan

KARACHI – Test matches in the ‘day and night’ format have moved a step closer to acceptance after the International Cricket Council (ICC) endorsed a trial first class Test match held under lights with a coloured ball in Pakistan.

“I don’t see any problems with the behaviour of the ball or playing under lights. This … Read more >>.

Watson one of the most valuable cricketers in the world: Roebuck

SYDNEY – Cricket columnist Peter Roebuck has described Australian opener Shane Watson as one of the most valuable cricketers in the world, based on his recent performances in Test, 50-over and Twenty20 cricket.

“Few batsmen hit the ball harder or straighter; few present as broad a bat or accept as much responsibility. He might not be …. Source article  : Watson one of the most valuable cricketers in the world: Roebuck.

England to focus on getting Watson out early: Saker

MELBOURNE – England’s bowling coach David Saker has said the team will focus its energy on getting in form Australian batsman Shane Watson out, after the opener plundered 161 not out at the MCG on Sunday.

Saker, who played eight seasons of first class cricket in Australia, including two alongside Watson in Tasmania, said the bowling …. Read the original article  : England to focus on getting Watson out early: Saker.

Pak vying to win ODI series against NZ to ‘gain confidence’ ahead of World Cup: Afridi

KARACHI – Pakistan will try to win “maximum matches” in the six-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting January 22 in Wellington, to gain confidence ahead of next month’s World Cup, limited-overs captain Shahid Afridi has said.

“The series is very important because it’s the last before the World Cup,” The Express Tribune quoted Afridi, as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak vying to win ODI series against NZ to ‘gain confidence’ ahead of World Cup: Afridi.

Germany to honour Paul the Octopus with shrine

LONDON – Paul the Octopus, who amazed people with his predictions during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, is to be honoured with a “Paul Corner” at his former house nearly three months after his death.

Paul died at his home in Oberhausen in October 2010 at the age of nearly three years.

The Telegraph quoted a [..] Read the original article: here.

Doherty ‘basically shafted’ by selectors despite being economical: Bailey

MELBOURNE – Tasmanian captain George Bailey has said spinner Xavier Doherty has been “basically shafted” by national selectors, being more economical in domestic one-day cricket this season.

The left-arm tweaker was overlooked for the 15-man squad, in favour of dropped Test bowler Nathan Hauritz, despite having more wickets in domestic one-day cricket this season.

Bailey said he … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Doherty ‘basically shafted’ by selectors despite being economical: Bailey.

Clarke hits out at bar claims during MCG Test

MELBOURNE – Australian vice-captain Michael Clarke has rubbished claims of player misbehaviour during the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Witnesses had earlier claimed that Clarke and opener Phillip Hughes had been on a bar hopping spree before the third day of the MCG Test, which Australia eventually went on to lose by … Original article on : Clarke hits out at bar claims during MCG Test.

Kochi IPL to reveal name, logo and jersey in February

KOCHI – The Kochi IPL franchise Tuesday announced that the name, logo and the jersey of its team will be revealed next month.

The announcement came after coach Geoff Lawson earlier said he would like to name the team as Kochi Tigers.
“Nothing has been decided so far and what he said is his … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kochi IPL to reveal name, logo and jersey in February.

Australian Open: Nadal barely tested as injured opponent quits

MELBOURNE – Rafael Nadal booked easy passage into the second round of the Australian Open Tuesday, with the Spanish top seed showing no mercy against Marcos Daniel as the Brazilian quit trailing 6-0, 5-0 with a knee injury.

Nadal, bidding for a fourth consecutive Grand Slam title, needed just three-quarters of an hour to advance …. Original article  : Australian Open: Nadal barely tested as injured opponent quits.

Oz cricketers Clarke, Hughes were ‘out on town’ drinking before losing Ashes

MELBOURNE – Australian cricketers Michael Clarke and Phil Hughes were ‘out on the town’ drinking the night before Australia lost the Ashes on home soil.

The Telegraph quoted witnesses as claiming that they saw Clarke and Hughes drinking at a Melbourne bar well into the night on the eve of their humiliating Ashes series defeat at [..] Read the original article: here.

Hastings a surprise selection in Australia World Cup squad

MELBOURNE – Inexperienced all-rounder John Hastings has been a surprise selection in Australia’s 15-man World Cup squad.

Michael Hussey was also named despite suffering a serious hamstring injury on Sunday. Hussey will have his rehabilitation program determined in the next 24 hours, but faces a race against the clock to be fit for Australia’s World Cup …. Read the original article  : here.

Scottish soccer star charged with rape during New Year house party

LONDON – Dundee United and Scotland footballer David Goodwillie has been reportedly charged with raping a woman during a New Year party in West Lothian.

The 24-year-old woman alleged that she was being sexually assaulted during the house party in Armadale on January 2 this year.

The BBC quoted Lothian and Borders Police as …. Read the original article  : Scottish soccer star charged with rape during New Year house party.

Becks’ Porsche sold for $217,100 on eBay

NEW YORK – A Porsche 911 owned by British soccer star David Beckham has been sold on eBay for 217,100 dollars to an anonymous bidder.

According to USA Today, the new owner will enjoy riding around in the over-the-top style that the soccer star and mogul is accustomed to – blacked-out headlights, customized rims, a [..] Read the original article: here.

Hussey likely to miss World Cup

MELBOURNE – Australian batsman Michael Hussey is almost certain to miss the 2011 World Cup after undergoing surgery yesterday to repair a serious hamstring injury.

Cricket Australia has not given up hope of Hussey featuring in the World Cup, which runs from mid-February to early April, and named him in a 15-man squad yesterday.

But a … Read more : Hussey likely to miss World Cup.

Lee has new tricks to contain World Cup batters

SYDNEY – Fast bowler Brett Lee, who will lead the Australian pace attack in the World Cup, has added extra variation to his artillery, including a slower-ball bouncer.

While still capable of reaching speeds in excess of 150km/h, Lee has added extra variation to his artillery, including a slower-ball bouncer that NSW coach Matthew Mott described …. Original source  : Lee has new tricks to contain World Cup batters.

Rooney not even the best in Manchester United, says City’s Balotelli

LONDON – Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli has launched an incredible tirade targeting Manchester United star Wayne Rooney.

“He’s (Rooney) good, but he is not the best in Manchester,” the Sun quoted Balotelli, as saying.

The 20-year-old even says that United fans would love to see him at Old Trafford.They stop me in the street and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rooney not even the best in Manchester United, says City’s Balotelli.

Pakistan names World Cup squad minus Yousuf, mystery prevails over skipper

LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a 15-member squad for next month’s World Cup, which is to be jointly hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

The selectors, headed by former Test opener Mohsin Khan, have almost retained the ODI squad picked for the New Zealand tour, with the exception of fast [..] Read the original article: here.

New Zealand name rookie spinner Woodcock for World Cup squad

WELLINGTON – New Zealand Wednesday named in-form left-arm spinner Luke Woodcock, who has never played in a One-day International, in its 15-man squad for the World Cup, which starts in India next month.

Woodcock, 28, made his international Twenty20 debut against Pakistan this month, taking 0-20 off four overs, but starred in the domestic one-day …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New Zealand name rookie spinner Woodcock for World Cup squad.

Zaheer snaps 250 wickets, Pathan hits maiden 50 against Proteas (Match highlights)

CAPE TOWN – The explosive Yusuf Pathan struck his maiden fifty against South Africa while Zaheer Khan became only the fifth Indian bowler to take 250 wickets in One-day Internationals in the team’s victory over the Proteas here at the Newlands Stadium.

The other highlights:
Suresh Raina and Yusuf Pathan were involved in a sixth-wicket … Read : Zaheer snaps 250 wickets, Pathan hits maiden 50 against Proteas (Match highlights).

Wenger says Arsenal stars need to shape up or pay the price

LONDON – Arsenal players have been told to improve their mental sharpness against Leeds tonight – or pay the price.

Arsenal head to Elland Road hoping to deliver a better display than the one which saw them scrape a 1-1 FA Cup draw at the Emirates 11 days ago.

Manager Arsene Wenger said: “The speed of our … Read more »»».

Mancini says ‘goals, goals, goals’ against Manchester City can blow title chances

LONDON – Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini reckons that the club’s sloppy defence could blow their shot at Premier League glory.

In their last three games City have conceded seven goals, including two in the 4-2 FA Cup third round win over Leicester on Tuesday.

City is currently second in the Premier League points table with 45 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mancini says ‘goals, goals, goals’ against Manchester City can blow title chances.

Pakistan wins Test series against New Zealand 1-0 after drawing second Test

WELLINGTON – Pakistan tasted their first Test series victory since 2006 as they won the series against New Zealand 1-0 after the second and final match at Wellington ended in a draw.

Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-haq finished the day on 70 not out as Pakistan reached 226 for five at the close of the play, 48 runs …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan wins Test series against New Zealand 1-0 after drawing second Test.

Greg Mattison – New Michigan Wolverines Defensive Coordinator

BALTIMORE (GaeaTimes.com)- Greg Mattison will no longer be a part of the Baltimore Ravens. Instead, the defensive coordinator from now onwards will be acting in the same position with the Michigan Wolverines. In a recent development, the University of Michigan football team officials decided to hire none other than the Raven’s defensive coordinator as their …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Greg Mattison – New Michigan Wolverines Defensive Coordinator.

IPL, other places of ill-repute harming youthful minds, techniques: Roebuck

SYDNEY – Noted cricket columnist Peter Roebuck has described tournaments like the Indian Premier League (IPL) as sporting institutions of “ill-repute” that may improve players bank balances, but have the potential of harming youthful minds and their cricket techniques.

Commenting on the Australian World Cup squad, Roebuck said it was an unbalanced, old and unfit one …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tait backs CA’s one spinner policy for World Cup

SYDNEY – Australia fast bowler Shaun Tait has said he is not surprised that selectors have chosen only one specialist spinner for the World Cup.

The decision to leave out Tasmania left-arm slow bowler Xavier Doherty from the 15-man World Cup squad announced on Tuesday leaves part-time spinners David Hussey and Steve Smith backing up spinner …. Source article  : Tait backs CA’s one spinner policy for World Cup.

Black Caps pick uncapped Woodcock in World Cup squad

WELLINGTON – New Zealand has picked uncapped spinner Luke Woodcock and fast bowler Hamish Bennett in the 15-man World Cup squad named today.

Convener of selectors Mark Greatbatch said 23-year-old Bennett returns from a groin injury after making his ODI debut in Bangladesh last year.

Other points of interest include the return from knee surgery … Original source on Gaea Times at : Black Caps pick uncapped Woodcock in World Cup squad.

Shane Warne ‘to woo Liz Hurley all over again’

MELBOURNE – Cricketer Shane Warne is apparently ready to woo Elizabeth Hurley all over again.

The pair indulged in some serious Twitter flirting that culminated in a romantic encounter in London last month.

Their UK fling resulted in both Warne and Hurley announcing their respective marriages was over.

But the tweet-powered lovers hit the skids after it was …. Original article  : Shane Warne ‘to woo Liz Hurley all over again’.

Saker backs Anderson to propel England to World Cup glory

MELBOURNE – England bowling coach David Saker is convinced that fast bowler James Anderson would lead the team’s bowling attack to World Cup glory.

“Jimmy Anderson is one of the world’s top bowlers and is still looking to adapt his game,” the Sun quoted Saker, as saying.

“The rest of the attack are the same, they just … Read more »»».

Prior named in England World Cup squad

LONDON – Wicketkeeper Matt Prior has been recalled to England’s squad for next month’s World Cup in the Indian subcontinent.

Prior is the sole wicketkeeper-batsman named in the 15-man squad for the two-month tournament in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

He had been replaced by Steve Davies in the ongoing seven-match ODI series against Australia.

The 28-year-old, who …. Source article  : Prior named in England World Cup squad.

Wozniacki, Henin reach Australian Open third round

MELBOURNE – Top seed Caroline Wozniacki and seven-time Grand Slam winner Justine Henin both powered into the third round of the Australian Open Wednesday, losing a total of five games between them.

Dane Wozniacki, still seeking a first title at a major to validate her new WTA number one ranking, crushed American Vania King, a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Wozniacki, Henin reach Australian Open third round.

Sharapova, Dokic satisfied after shelving coaches

MELBOURNE – Coaches are being dealt like cards in the world of women’s tennis, with Maria Sharapova and Australian Jelena Dokic just the latest to change. Both players have done well so far out of their personnel moves, reaching the second round of the Australian Open.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Sharapova tried to cushion the …. Original source  : Sharapova, Dokic satisfied after shelving coaches.

Hewitt morale sinks after opening Melbourne loss

MELBOURNE – Always controversial, Lleyton Hewitt copped criticism on Melbourne talk radio Wednesday after storming off the court in defeat without a wave to his home crowd after losing a match which he had in his hands.

Hewitt lost 3-6, 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7-1), 9-7 in the first round to longtime Argentine rival Davis Nalbandian, …. Source article  : Hewitt morale sinks after opening Melbourne loss.

Napoli edge Bologna to clinch Italian Cup quarter finals

ROME – Napoli secured a berth in the quarter finals of the Italian Cup with a 2-1 win over guests Bologna at Naples’ San Paolo stadium.

Napoli rested their Uruguayan bomber Edinson Cavani, but took the lead on nine minutes with a great header from Algerian midfielder Hassan Yebda, who found the far angle off … Read more »»».

Pakistan team united like the 1992 WC winning side: Intikhab

KARACHI – Pakistan’s cricket officials believe that the match-fixing scandal in which some of their players were involved has brought the team together ahead of the World Cup in February.

Intikhab Alam, the Pakistan team manager, Thursday said the controversies and uncertainty have actually worked as a catalyst to bond the players of a team … Original article on : Pakistan team united like the 1992 WC winning side: Intikhab.

PCB chief leaves for New Zealand to decide on WC captain

KARACHI – Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ijaz Butt has secretly left for New Zealand to “sort out” the captaincy issue that is threatening to hamper the team’s World Cup hopes.

According to sources, Butt has left for Wellington to be with the Pakistan team which will play six One-day Internationals against New Zealand starting …. Read the original article  : here.

Stoke City star Pennant forgot Porsche at train station

LONDON – English Premier League star Jermaine Pennant – once Britain’s most expensive teenage soccer player – forgot he owned a Porsche, leaving the luxury car at a train station for six months.

Pennant, who has a collection of sports cars, abandoned the Porsche in Spain when he left Spanish club Real Zaragoza for a …. Original source  : Stoke City star Pennant forgot Porsche at train station.

No rift between Fabregas, Denilson says coach Wenger

LONDON – Coach Arsene Wenger has denied reports of Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas having a rift with mid-fielder team-mate Denilson.

Denilson was quoted in yesterday’s SunSport saying Fabregas was not a natural leader.

But Gunners boss Wenger said: “They are very good friends and have a lot of respect for each other.

“We have many leaders in our … Read more : No rift between Fabregas, Denilson says coach Wenger.

Runaway Pak wicketkeeper Zulqarnain runs out of money in UK

LONDON – Runaway Pakistani wicketkeeper Zulqarnain Haider, who stunned one and all by fleeing the team hotel in Dubai hours before the final one-day international against South Africa last year, has said he has run out of money.

Zulqarnain, who has lost around 10lbs in weight during a “very depressing” period, claimed that the Pakistan Cricket … Original article on : Runaway Pak wicketkeeper Zulqarnain runs out of money in UK.

Warne calls off charity England-Oz greats Twenty20 flood relief match

MELBOURNE – Former Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne has called off a Twenty20 match to raise money for victims of the Queensland floods.

“Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but unfortunately after discussions with everyone concerned re a flood game, it won’t be happening,” the Daily Telegraph quoted Warne, as saying in his Twitter post.

It … Read more : Warne calls off charity England-Oz greats Twenty20 flood relief match.

Liverpool chairman Werner backs coach Dalglish for full-time role

LONDON – Liverpool chairman Tom Werner is backing coach Kenny Dalglish to become Liverpool’s permanent boss.

Werner said Dalglish was staking a strong claim to get the job full-time, even though his record after three games in charge is two defeats and a draw.

The Sun quoted Werner, as saying: “I think he’s the right …. Source article  : Liverpool chairman Werner backs coach Dalglish for full-time role.

Sunderland fans target striker Bent for shift to Aston Villa

LONDON – Striker Darren Brent has reportedly received sickening death threats from Sunderland fans on Twitter after his 24-million-pound move to Aston Villa.

One said: “I hope you die painfully, remember what we did for you.”

And another tweeted: “Die, Judas,” The Sun reports.

Villa boss Gerard Houllier signed Bent, 26, on Tuesday – prompting …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sunderland fans target striker Bent for shift to Aston Villa.

Muslim girl in US pulled from basketball game as headscarf posed ’safety risk’

LONDON – A Muslim girl in the US was forced to sit out the first half of a basketball game after a referee decided that her headscarf posed a safety risk.

Maheen Haq, 12, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was allowed to play the second half wearing the hijab, which the referee had said could choke her, after …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Muslim girl in US pulled from basketball game as headscarf posed ’safety risk’.

Liverpool close to inking 18 m pound deal with Suarez

LONDON – Liverpool coach Kenny Dalglish is on the brink of landing Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez for a sum of 18 million pounds.

The 23-year-old Ajax star is a long-time Liverpool target but the Dutch giants wanted at least 25 million pounds.

But Kop boss Dalglish and director of football Damien Comolli are said to be close …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Liverpool close to inking 18 m pound deal with Suarez.

Australia raises CWG unpaid bills with India

MELBOURNE – Australia Thursday raised the issue of millions of dollars owed to its firms by India’s Commonwealth Games Organising Committee with visiting External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, who assured he would take it up with the sports ministry on return to India.

As soon as I go back, I will take it up … Read more >>>.

Barcelona beaten, but will face Almeria in King’s cup semis

MADRID – Barcelona progressed into the semifinals of the Spanish King’s Cup Wednesday despite a surprise 3-1 defeat away to second division Betis.

Barca went into the semis on a 6-3 aggregate because they hammered Betis 5-0 in last week’s first leg.
Betis are top of the second division and on the road back to … Read more »».

Sports ministry important in handling CWG disputes: Maken

NEW DELHI – The sports ministry has a “very important role” to play in handling disputes related to the Commonwealth Games (CWG), India’s new Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Ajay Maken said here Thursday.

Minister of sports has a very important role and we do not deny any role or responsibility which has been put … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sports ministry important in handling CWG disputes: Maken.

Chelsea determined to rope in Sanchez

LONDON – Chelsea coach Carlo Ancelotti appears determined to rope in the services of 25-million-pound-rated Udinese midfield star Alexis Sanchez.

Chelsea did hold talks with the Italian outfit, but have been unable to agree on a fee so far.

Udinese chairman Gianpaolo Pozzo revealed: “With Chelsea, we talked 25 million pounds. I want this figure, if not …. Source  : Chelsea determined to rope in Sanchez.

Gunners working for clean four title sweep: Nasri

LONDON – Samir Nasri has revealed that Arsenal will go for a clean sweep of all four trophies this season.

“We want to win every game and every competition, so the FA Cup is really important to us. We wanted to start really strong and not let them believe or take any confidence. The pitch … Read : Gunners working for clean four title sweep: Nasri.

PCB issues notice to Waqar Younis for violating board’s new media policy

LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board has issued a notice to team coach Waqar Younis for issuing a statement regarding the selectors’ decision to withhold the name of the captain while announcing the final 15-member squad for next month’s World Cup.

Waqar had said: “I am surprised that the board has delayed announcing the captain. I … Read this article on Gaea Times at : PCB issues notice to Waqar Younis for violating board’s new media policy.

Australia keeping careful eye on Watson’s fitness

HOBART – Australian all-rounder Shane Watson’s workload is being carefully monitored by team management who are wary not to turn the player into the goose that laid the golden egg.

Watson has spent nearly 29 hours at the crease, faced almost 215 overs of bowling, rolled his arm over 938 times and not missed a game … Read more : Australia keeping careful eye on Watson’s fitness.

Vettori quits as Test captain, will end ODI reign after World Cup

MELBOURNE – Daniel Vettori has announced he will step down as New Zealand cricket captain after the 2011 World Cup.

Vettori has captained the Black Caps in 32 Tests since he took over from Stephen Fleming in 2007, and sits third on the list of most Tests captained for New Zealand, behind Fleming (80) and John …. Original article  : Vettori quits as Test captain, will end ODI reign after World Cup.

PCB’s decision not to name Pak skipper for World Cup “strange practice”: Akram

KARACHI – Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has expressed surprise over the Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision to withhold the name of the captain while announcing the final 15-member squad for next month’s World Cup to be held in the sub-continent from February 19.

“It is a strange practice to me, and it only means that …. Original article  : PCB’s decision not to name Pak skipper for World Cup “strange practice”: Akram.

Paine might replace Hussey in Australia’s World Cup top-six: Bracken

MELBOURNE – Nathan Bracken has said Australia might have no choice but to play back-up wicket-keeper Tim Paine in the top-six due to a lack of balance in the World Cup squad.

With Australia likely to risk taking Mike Hussey to the subcontinent in the hope he will be fit for the later stages of the … Read more >>.

PCB introduces grading system for Pak umpires

KARACHI – The Pakistan Cricket Board has enforced a new policy of grading the performance of umpires in the wake of complaints against sub-standard umpiring in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy final.

The tournament’s final match was marred by poor umpiring and players’ protests …. Original source  : PCB introduces grading system for Pak umpires.

Federer, Djokovic into fourth round of Australian Open

MELBOURNE – Defending champion Roger Federer on Friday breezed into the fourth round of the Australian Open by beating Belgian Xavier Malisse 6-3, 6-3, 6-1.

Federer, who endured a gruelling five-set epic against Gilles Simon in the second round, needed just an hour and 45 minutes …. Original article  : Federer, Djokovic into fourth round of Australian Open.

Sania Mirza helping ‘disappointed’ hubby Malik in handling biggest crisis of his career

KARACHI – Former Pakistan cricket captain Shoaib Malik, who has been omitted from the national squad for next month’s World Cup, says his wife and Indian tennis star Sania Mirza has been very supportive during this most difficult phase of his career. … Read more »».

Plenty of fight left in Kiwi all-rounder Oram

WELLINGTON – Jacob Oram, a veteran of 141 one-day internationals for New Zealand, has brushed off his anonymous hecklers and has offered some wry humour by way of a response.

“I like to think that that comes from a place of caring and they view me as something … Original article on : Plenty of fight left in Kiwi all-rounder Oram.

How and Bennett now key Black Cap figures

WELLINGTON – New Zealand cricketers Jamie How and Hamish Bennett now loom as key figures in their country’s quest for the World Cup that is to be played in India between February and April this year.

Top order batsman How is the backup wicketkeeper, given Brendon McCullum …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

England wicketkeeper Davies disappointed over World Cup omission

HOBART – Steven Davies has admitted that he is disappointed at not being named as England’s wicketkeeper for next month’s 50-over World Cup in the Indian subcontinent.

Matt Prior has been chosen in place of Davies in Andy Flower’s 15-man squad for the two-month tournament. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : England wicketkeeper Davies disappointed over World Cup omission.

Prior says Watson century should be benchmark for all openers

Hobart (Tasmania, Australia), – Recalled England wicketkeeper Matt Prior wants to become England’s version of Shane Watson, turning a solid 50 into a match-winning century.mpressed by Watson’s 161 not out at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in the first one-day international against England at … Read more »»».

PCB boss Butt ’secretly’ leaves for NZ to decide on Pak captain for World Cup

ISLAMABAD – In the backdrop of former Pakistani players slamming the Pakistan Cricket Board for its decision to withhold the captain’s name while announcing the final 15-member squad for next month’s World Cup, PCB chairman Ijaz Butt has secretly left for New Zealand to … Read more >>>.

Indian businessman Ali Syed to buy La Liga club

MADRID – Indian businessman Ahsan Ali Syed is close to buying Spanish football club Racing Santander for a reported 30-40 million euros.

The deal between Ali Syed and the La Liga club could be inked Monday, Spanish daily El Diario Montanes reported.
“After studying options in different countries in the past months, we know that …. Original article  : Indian businessman Ali Syed to buy La Liga club.

Australian Open: Federer beats Mallise, for record 57th win

MELBOURNE – Roger Federer beat longtime Belgian opponent Xavier Malisse 6-3, 6-3, 6-1 in a battle for old time’s sake and broke the all-time record for men’s match victories at the Australian Open in the process Friday.

The Swiss second seed, the defending champion bidding for his fifth career title at Melbourne Park, notched his …. Source article  : Australian Open: Federer beats Mallise, for record 57th win.

Cautious Clarke raises World Cup risk factor

Hobart (Tasmania, Australia), – Acting Australian captain Michael Clarke is wondering just how many risks the defending champions can afford to take in their selections for February 19-April 2 tournament in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Ponting (broken finger) and Hussey (hamstring surgery) are on the sidelines and appear unlikely to take part in Australia’s seven-game …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cautious Clarke raises World Cup risk factor.

Usman Khawaja joins Derbyshire

SYDNEY – Australian Test batsman Usman Khawaja will join Derbyshire for the upcoming English County season.

The 24-year-old left-hander will head to England from the beginning of the County campaign through to the conclusion of England’s domestic Twenty20 competition.

That means he’ll be eligible for eight County matches, six 40-over matches and the entire T20 competition, the … Read : Usman Khawaja joins Derbyshire.

Ric Charlesworth, the best man to coach Aussie cricketers: Roebuck

SYDNEY – Dr Richard Charlesworth is the best candidate to coach the Australian cricket team, feels cricket columnist Peter Roebuck.

Describing as a man of many parts, sporting and otherwise, Roebuck said Charlesworth has the “exposure, organizational powers and rigour needed to lift the team out of its current malaise.”

He said that Charlesworth has previously … Read more »»».

Once looking for a fight outside the park, Prior, Siddle are now pals

Hobart (Tasmania, Australia), – England wicketkeeper Matt Prior has revealed how bitter Ashes rival Peter Siddle has become his new mate.

Prior, 28, patched up things with Siddle while playing for Victoria Bushrangers in the Twenty20 Big Bash tournament Down Under.

But Prior’s stay with Victoria ended abruptly this week after two matches and one … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Once looking for a fight outside the park, Prior, Siddle are now pals.

Contractor blames Oz ministers for no action on 2010 Delhi CWG unpaid bills claim

MELBOURNE – An Australian contractor claims that he had written to the federal government over a month ago asking for help over massive unpaid bills and red tape from the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games organizers, but has still not received a reply.

Andrew Howard, the boss of fireworks group Howard and Sons, said that he had …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Contractor blames Oz ministers for no action on 2010 Delhi CWG unpaid bills claim.

Prior says his role will be to ‘turbo charge’ England to World Cup glory

HOBART – Recalled England wicketkeeper Matt Prior has said that he intends to use his experience and leadership skills to guide the team to World Cup glory.

Prior is the sole wicketkeeper-batsman named in the 15-man England squad for the two-month tournament in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

He had been replaced by Steve Davies in the …. Source article  : Prior says his role will be to ‘turbo charge’ England to World Cup glory.

Black Caps move power hitters down the order for ODI against Pak

WELLINGTON – New Zealand skipper Daniel Vettori has revealed that Brendon McCullum will bat at No 6 in Saturday’s first one-day international against Pakistan in Wellington.

Vettori told a pre-match press conference that McCullum would drop down from opener to six, with Jacob Oram at seven in a bid to replicate the side’s batting success of …. Original source  : Black Caps move power hitters down the order for ODI against Pak.

Oz teen’s advice on Clarke’s flawed technique ‘right on the money’: Jones

MELBOURNE – The Australian teenager who advised Michael Clarke against “pushing at the ball” in order to find batting form is right on the money, according to former batman Dean Jones.

Seventeen-year-old Daniel Brew had gatecrashed a Hobart press conference on Thursday, and asked Clarke what he planned to do to rectify failings in his technique.

Clarke …. Read the original article  : Oz teen’s advice on Clarke’s flawed technique ‘right on the money’: Jones.

Shane Warne’s secret rendezvous with Liz Hurley in LA

MELBOURNE – Cricket legend Shane Warne has for the first time spoken – although briefly – about his relationship with Liz Hurley.

The spin king confirmed he hooked up with the sexy Brit in LA last weekend, reports the Daily Telegraph.

Warne has been trying to keep the reunion a secret after making a last-minute dash to [..] Read the original article: here.

Watson to become highest paid Oz cricketer with new $2 million contract

MELBOURNE – Australian all-rounder Shane Watson is reportedly set to unseat Ricky Ponting as the highest paid player in the country by signing a new Cricket Australia (CA) contract worth up to two million dollars.

Watson will claim the No.1 ranking when CA announces its new 25-man contract list in April.

The rankings are kept a closely … Read more »».

Not sending Marsh to World Cup means sending wrong batsmen: Roebuck

MELBOURNE – Noted cricket columnist Peter Roebuck has applauded Shaun Marsh for his timely innings which saved the Australian team from another humiliation at the hands of England.

Marsh was the hero of Friday’s 46-run win over England, making 110 after only being called into the one-day team to replace the injured Mike Hussey.

“Long before his … Read more »».

Murray crushes Lopez to storm into last 16 of Australian Open

MELBOURNE – World No. 5 Andy Murray crushed Spain’s Guillermo Garcia-Lopez in straight-sets to reach the fourth round of the Australian Open on Saturday.

Murray outclassed the 27-year-old 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 in less than 90 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.

The Scot managed 10 aces and broke eight times as he won a 15th match … Read more >>.

Parore prefers McCullum to Taylor as new Black Caps skipper post Vettori

WELLINGTON – Former wicketkeeper Adam Parore is in favour of Brendon McCullum to take over as the new captain of New Zealand in place of batsman Ross Taylor.

“Ross has the inside running for the test captaincy but I would give the job to Brendon McCullum. In some respects, the importance of captaincy gets overstated, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Parore prefers McCullum to Taylor as new Black Caps skipper post Vettori.

Youzhny and Tsonga out of Australian Open, Soderling storms into round four

MELBOURNE – Tenth seed Mikhail Youzhny and 2008 runner-up Jo-Wilfried Tsonga crashed out of the Australian Open on Saturday.

Canadian qualifier Milos Raonic eliminated Youzhny 6-4, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4, to book a fourth-round date with Spanish seventh seed David Ferrer, while Ukraine’s Alexandr Dolgopolov ousted Tsonga 3-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-1, 6-1, the Age reported.

Youzhny is the [..] Read the original article: here.

PCB yet to receive any call from runaway wicketkeeper Zulqarnain

ISLAMABAD – Following runaway Pakistani wicketkeeper Zulqarnain Haider’s claim that the Pakistan Cricket Board was withholding his dues, the PCB has said it has not received any call from him.

Zulqarnain, who had stunned one and all by fleeing the team hotel in Dubai hours before the final one-day international against South Africa last year, recently … Original article on : PCB yet to receive any call from runaway wicketkeeper Zulqarnain.

Pakistan can’t be ruled out of World Cup title contention: Ramiz Raja

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan cannot be ruled out of the title contention for the ICC World Cup 2011, which starts on February 19, Pakistani cricketer-turned-commentator Ramiz Raja has said.

“I don’t think Pakistan can be ruled out of title contention. There will be less pressure on them and for our players 50-over cricket is a pretty natural … Read more : Pakistan can’t be ruled out of World Cup title contention: Ramiz Raja.

Allan Donald gives reverse swing lessons to Kiwi bowlers ahead of 2011 World Cup

WELLINGTON – Legendary South African fast bowler Allan Donald, who took over as New Zealand bowling coach, unraveled the mysteries of reverse swing in his first lesson to Kiwi bowlers at the Basin Reserve nets.

Captain Daniel Vettori said they were keen to explore reverse swing, heading into the dry, abrasive subcontinent grounds for next …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Allan Donald gives reverse swing lessons to Kiwi bowlers ahead of 2011 World Cup.

Doherty to replace injured Hauritz for next two ODIs against England

MELBOURNE – Tasmanian spinner Xavier Doherty will replace injured Nathan Hauritz for the next two one-day internationals against England.

Doherty will join the Australian squad in Sydney on Saturday evening and will be available for selection for Sunday’s third game of the series at the SCG.

Hauritz appeared to dislocate his shoulder in Friday night’s win … Original article on : Doherty to replace injured Hauritz for next two ODIs against England.

Laura Vikmanis: Oldest NFL Cheerleader

CINCINNATI (GaeaTimes.com)- Laura Vikmanis is 42, but still in the best of her health and spirit that can put any 20 year old to envy. With a great figure and a fit body, she is not only the oldest cheer leader of Cincinnati Bengal, but also NFL Laura Vikmanis said with her good sense …. Original source  : Laura Vikmanis: Oldest NFL Cheerleader.

Masur defends Venus Williams shock retirement from Australian Open

MELBOURNE – Australian tennis great Wally Masur has defended Venus Williams after the former world No.1’s shock retirement from the Australian Open on Friday night due to injury.

Williams was jeered off centre court at Melbourne Park after her shock exit from the tournament just seven points into her third-round clash with German Andrea Petkovic.

The …. Original source  : Masur defends Venus Williams shock retirement from Australian Open.

Manchester United will allow ‘under performing’ Michael Carrick to leave

LONDON – Manchester United will allow Michael Carrick, who has just 18 months left on his contract, to leave by the summer, as there are no plans to offer him a new one.

Carrick, 29, had an inconsistent first half to this season and only a marked improvement will prompt a change of mind by the …. Original source  : Manchester United will allow ‘under performing’ Michael Carrick to leave.

Rafael Nadal is new Armani underwear model

MELBOURNE – Tennis ace Rafael Nadal has been unveiled as the new face of Giorgio Armani’s underwear and jeans campaign.

The Grand Slam winner has followed the likes of David Beckham and Christiano Ronaldo.

In a new ad campaign, the ripped hunk-who is incidentally the worlds number-one-ranked tennis player-bares nearly everything off to model both underwear and … Read : Rafael Nadal is new Armani underwear model.

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp ‘mugged and pick-pocketed’ in Madrid

LONDON – Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp was pick-pocketed at a football match between Atletico and Real at Madrid in Spain on Thursday.

Redknapp, who had gone to the match, said: “It was difficult to concentrate on the game, because I got mugged before. Well, I got my pockets picked.”

He said two men fell to their knees …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp ‘mugged and pick-pocketed’ in Madrid.

‘Gatecrashing Oz teen’ now tells Clarke to ‘hit the nets’ to overcome form slump

SYDNEY – Victorian teenager Daniel Brew has advised Australia’s stand-in skipper Michael Clarke to hit the nets for two days to work on his game in a bid to lift himself out of his form slump.

Daniel Brew became an overnight celebrity after gatecrashing Clarke’s pre-game press conference to give the struggling batsman batting tips.

Brew, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Gatecrashing Oz teen’ now tells Clarke to ‘hit the nets’ to overcome form slump.

India lose by 48 runs through D/L; series levelled

PORT ELIZABETH – India lost to South Africa by 48 runs through Duckworth and Lewis (D/L) method in the rain-interrupted fourth one day international here Friday, with the five-match series now levelled 2-2.

India were 137 for six in 31.3 overs and needed another 129 runs for victory when rain stopped play. At resumption, the … Read more : India lose by 48 runs through D/L; series levelled.

Scoreboard: India vs South Africa, fourth ODI

PORT ELIZABETH – Following is the scoreboard of the fourth one day international between India and South Africa here Friday:

South Africa:
Hashim Amla run out (Kohli/Dhoni) 64
Graeme Smith c Harbhajan Singh b Nehra 18
Morne van Wyk c Kohli b Yuvraj Singh 15
A.B. de Villiers c Dhoni b Yuvraj Singh 3
… Read more »».

India lose fourth ODI by 48 runs through D/L method

PORT ELIZABETH – India lost by 48 runs to South Africa in the rain-marred fourth ODI through Duckworth and Lewis (D/L) method to level the five-match series 2-2 here Friday.

Chasing South Africa’s 265 for seven in 50 overs, India were 137 for six when rain suspended the play. On resumption, four overs were lost …. Source article  : India lose fourth ODI by 48 runs through D/L method.

Scoreboard: South Africa innings, fourth ODI

PORT ELIZABETH – Scoreboard of South African innings in the fourth ODI against India here Friday.

South Africa:
Hashim Amla run out (Kohli/Dhoni) 64
Graeme Smith c Harbhajan Singh b Nehra 18
Morne van Wyk c Kohli b Yuvraj Singh 15
A.B. de Villiers c Dhoni b Yuvraj Singh … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Scoreboard: South Africa innings, fourth ODI.

Duminy prevents South Africa’s collapse, India need 266 to win

PORT ELIZABETH – Jean Paul Duminy struck 71 and raised vital partnerships with the lower order as South Africa scored 265 for seven against India in the fourth ODI here Friday.

South Africa were reeling at 113/5, before Duminy and Johan Botha (44) scored 70 runs to resuce the hosts. Duminy and Robin Peterson …. Source article  : Duminy prevents South Africa’s collapse, India need 266 to win.

South Africa set India 266-run target

PORT ELIZABETH – Jean Paul Duminy struck 71 as South Africa scored 265 for seven against India in the fourth ODI cricket match here Friday.

At one stage, South Africa were reeling at 113/5 but Duminy and Johan Botha (44) scored 70 runs to rescue the hosts. Duminy and Robin Peterson (31) then added another … Read more »».

Wozniacki reaches quarter-finals of Australian Open

MELBOURNE – World No.1 Caroline Wozniacki moved into the Australian Open quarterfinals on Sunday with a 6-3, 6-4 win over Anastasija Sevastova.

Wozniacki finished off Sevastova in one hour and 20 minutes to advance to the quarterfinals at Melbourne Park for the first time.

One … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Wozniacki reaches quarter-finals of Australian Open.

Federer, Djokovic reach quarters of Australian Open

MELBOURNE – Roger Federer on Sunday equalled Jimmy Connors’ Grand Slam record of 27 consecutive quarter-final appearances as he overcame Tommy Robredo in four sets at the Australian Open.

Federer took two hour and 25 minutes [..] Read the original article: here.

Green Bay Packers- Chicago Bears Game Starts At 3:00 PM

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- Football fans cannot wait to have enough of the excitement that will be rendered out by the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears as the two compete for the NFC Championship final of the Super Bowl. This super exciting game that football experts have labeled as one of the most awaited games …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Green Bay Packers- Chicago Bears Game Starts At 3:00 PM.

Kiwi team claims ’six-figure sum’ from Delhi CWG

WELLINGTON – The controversial Delhi Commonwealth Games is in the headlines again after sporting authorities in New Zealand claimed that they are owed a ’six-figure sum’ by the event’s organisers in India.

The New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) is yet to be reimbursed for travel costs for the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kiwi team claims ’six-figure sum’ from Delhi CWG.

Former England cricketer Cork to perform double death stunt on ice

LONDON – Former England star Dominic Cork will be seen on tonight’s ITV1 show at 6.10 p.m. performing a Double Death Spiral with professional partner Alexandra Schauman, 30.

The tricky skating manoeuvre features the man in a pivot position with his arm outstretched holding his partner’s hand …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rooney snapped on phone while driving

LONDON – England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney was snapped on his mobile in his 95,000 pound Range Rover Overfinch driving out of a McDonald’s car park in Manchester.

Minutes earlier, the 25-year-old had bought a happy meal for 14-month-old … Read more »»».

Chelsea can still win Premier League title: Anelka

LONDON – Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka believes that his team can still win the Premier League title if they follow Arsenal’s lead from 13 years ago.

Chelsea has fallen off the title pace since November in a terrible run of form. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chelsea can still win Premier League title: Anelka.

Lahore High Court sends notice to PCB for early hearing of Shoaib’s appeal

LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has received a legal notice in response to an application by fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar in the Lahore High Court, seeking an early hearing of his appeal challenging a ban and fine imposed on him.

An appellate tribunal … Read more >>>.

New Zealand Cricket toying with idea of having separate Test, T20 coaches

WELLINGTON – New Zealand Cricket (NZC) Chief Executive Justin Vaughan has said the national team could soon see the appointment of two different coaches for Twenty20s and Tests.

Vaughan, however, said any decision on whether to assign someone other than John Wright … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New Zealand Cricket toying with idea of having separate Test, T20 coaches.

World Cup win not beyond New Zealand: Richardson

WELLINGTON – Former New Zealand opener Mark Richardson believes that winning this year’s World Cup in India is not beyond the reach of the Black Caps.

In an article for the New Zealand Herald, Richardson said that if skipper Daniel Vettori achieved the title, he would be rated …. Source  : World Cup win not beyond New Zealand: Richardson.

David Beckham’s sex case gets murkier

LONDON – Soccer star David Beckham’s sex case involving hooker Irma Nici and a ‘mystery brunette’ seems to be getting murkier by the day.

American magazine In Touch has filed a federal court motion, due to be heard on February 7, asking Beckham’s 16.5million pounds libel action …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Armstrong may become symbol for decades of corruption in professional cycling’

WELLINGTON – American racing cyclist Lance Armstrong’s former bike mechanic and personal assistant believes the seven-time Tour de France champion is in danger of becoming a permanent “symbol for decades of corruption”.

Mike Anderson has predicted a bleak future for Armstrong despite his vehement and …. Read the original article  : ‘Armstrong may become symbol for decades of corruption in professional cycling’.

India elect to field in Centurion ODI

CENTURION – Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni won the toss and elected to field in the fifth and final ODI against South Africa here Sunday.

India have made one change in their side, bringing in leg-spinner Piyush Chawla for pacer Ashish Nehra.
South Africa has fielded the same team that beat India in the fourth … Read more >>.

Spain slumps to hat-trick of losses in Melbourne

MELBOURNE – Spain suffered through a hat-trick of fourth-round losses Sunday at the Australian Open as former champions Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic led the way with winning displays at the expense of Iberian hopefuls.

Second seeded holder Federer, bidding for his fifth honours at Melbourne Park, dropped the second set after completely blanking Tommy … Read more >>>.

Botham to be key speaker at ‘Learning for a Better World’ fund-raiser

LONDON – Former England all-rounder Ian Botham will be the guest of honour at a dinner organized by Australia-based Learning for a Better World (LBW), which supports over 100 students through tertiary education in the developing world.

An LBW board member, Mike Coward, said the function … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Botham to be key speaker at ‘Learning for a Better World’ fund-raiser.

Muralidaran says 20-20 will keep him busy after he quits international cricket

COLOMBO – Sri Lankan off-spinner Muttiah Muralidaran has said that after retiring from international cricket he will keep himself busy through the Indian Premier League (IPL) and other 20-20 tournaments around the world.

Muralidaran had earlier announced that he would hang his boots after the 50-over World …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Muralidaran says 20-20 will keep him busy after he quits international cricket.

Oz Trade Minister to raise 2010 Delhi CWG payment issue during India visit

MELBOURNE – Australian Trade Minister Craig Emerson has said he will use his visit to India to lobby on behalf of Australian companies which claim that they were not paid for their work at last year’s Delhi Commonwealth Games.

Emerson will arrive in Mumbai on [..] Read the original article: here.

Fannie De Villiers offers to take up bowling mentor role with Team India

JOHANNESBURG – Former South African fast bowler Fannie De Villiers has said if the post is offered to him he would consider accepting the role of bowling mentor to the Indian team.

When asked whether he will agree if he was offered the post of …. Source  : Fannie De Villiers offers to take up bowling mentor role with Team India.

Hussey not using crutches post surgery to brighten WC playing chances

MELBOURNE – Australian batsman Michael Hussey has said that he would not use crutches as he recovers from hamstring surgery, in a bid to be back in full training in just four weeks.

“The surgeon didn’t want me to use crutches, basically because he wanted me to get on it and put weight …. Source  : Hussey not using crutches post surgery to brighten WC playing chances.

Shane Warne, Liz Hurley snapped smooching in a car!

MELBOURNE – Spin King Shane Warne and glamorous actress Elizabeth Hurley were snapped in a passionate embrace in Los Angeles last weekend.

The rendezvous show that the couple were very much back on despite Warne’s texting habits had derailed their affair, reports News.com.au.

They were … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Shane Warne, Liz Hurley snapped smooching in a car!.

David Hussey hopes England ODI series ‘kick-starts’ his career

SYDNEY – Australian all-rounder David Hussey is confident that his performance in the ongoing seven-match ODI series against England will ‘kick-start his career’ going into the 50-over World Cup in the Indian sub-continent.

Hussey, who was recalled to the Australia one-day outfit after 18 months, …. Read the original article  : David Hussey hopes England ODI series ‘kick-starts’ his career.

Clarke ‘trying too hard with his batting’: David Hussey

SYDNEY – Australian all-rounder David Hussey reckons that stand-in ODI captain Michael Clarke may be trying too hard to break his form slump.

Clarke has made only 55 runs in the three ODIs against England, which follows his miserable average of 21 in the Ashes series.

However, Hussey says that … Original article on : Clarke ‘trying too hard with his batting’: David Hussey.

Man U denies it has received a bid offer from Qatar

LONDON – Manchester United has insisted that they were not for sale, despite claims that oil-rich Qatar is prepared to pay up to two billion pounds.

Rumours of a 1.5 billion pound bid by Qatar Holdings, owned by the Gulf nation’s royal family, first surfaced a month ago.

But, according … Read more >>.

Bennett happy to find his way as change bowler

WELLINGTON – New Zealand paceman Hamish Bennett is happy to find his way as a change bowler despite being an obvious candidate to open the bowling in one-day international cricket.

Bennett played a co-starring role alongside Tim Southee in New Zealand’s nine-wicket defeat of Pakistan in the first of six one-day … Read more : Bennett happy to find his way as change bowler.

Pittsburgh Steelers VS New York Jets 2011 AFC Results

PITTSBURGH (GaeaTimes.com)- Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday lashed back an appropriate answer to the New York Jets who are known for their tough- talking. The Steelers rendered a tough competition to the Jets before notching the victory at the AFC Championship 2011 by a 24-19. The Steelers had accomplished their task mostly by the end of … Read more »».

Teen Tomic has embarrassed Nadal, says Laver

LOS ANGELES/MELBOURNE – Former Australian tennis greats Rod Laver and Roy Emerson have praised 18-year-old Bernard Tomic for pushing World Number One Rafael Nadal during their third-round clash.

Two-time junior grand slam champion Tomic pushed Nadal over three sets at the Australian Open on Saturday night, even going to a 4-0 lead in the second set.

The … Read : Teen Tomic has embarrassed Nadal, says Laver.

Petkovic says bet with coach triggered unique post-match ‘Petko Dance’

MELBOURNE – German tennis star Andrea Petkovic has revealed that her famous “Petko Dance” had evolved after a bet with her coach Petar Popovic.

The Petko Dance is busted out by Petkovic after every win, and has now become an Internet sensation after she defeated Samantha Stosur and Maria Sharapova in the Australian Open.

“It started … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Petkovic says bet with coach triggered unique post-match ‘Petko Dance’.

Oz Open: Federer is still blowing hot and cold

MELBOURNE – Swiss tennis great and 16-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer is blowing both hot and cold on the tennis circuit in the last year-and-a-half. When he’s hot in terms of form, he can’t be touched, but when he overreaches himself, and if his opponent is good enough, he can be challenged.

After hiring Paul …. Original source  : Oz Open: Federer is still blowing hot and cold.

Aussies should stop worrying about captaincy, focus on creating good team: Roebuck

SYDNEY – Australia is spending too much time thinking about captaincy and too little thinking about runs, feels cricket columnist Peter Roebuck.

In an article for the Sydney Morning Herald, Roebuck claimed that the Australian cricket tradition of choosing their best team and then selecting the leader from among them, was not being given the …. Read the original article  : Aussies should stop worrying about captaincy, focus on creating good team: Roebuck.

Hauritz to use Warne’s recovery as motivation to return for World Cup

MELBOURNE – To return in time for the ICC World Cup beginning February 19 on the subcontinent, spinner Nathan Hauritz will use Shane Warne’s remarkable recovery from a dislocated shoulder in 2003 as motivation.

Warne was back bowling in just 17 days following arthroscopic surgery to clean up his joint, the same operation Hauritz had in … Read : Hauritz to use Warne’s recovery as motivation to return for World Cup.

Stranded Everest heroes rescued in Nepal

KATHMANDU – A team of 14, including 10 Everest summiters, who became stranded due to bad weather after carrying Nepal’s tourism torch to a lesser peak, has begun to be rescued by helicopter, officials said.

Ten Everest heroes who had created a record, had become stranded in Lukla, a mountainous region in northern Nepal considered …. Source article  : Stranded Everest heroes rescued in Nepal.

Feud derailing South Africa’s World Cup hopes

SYDNEY – Cricket South Africa has plunged into a new crisis with the government intervening in an effort to resolve a long-standing dispute within the cricket controlling body.

South Africa’s Sports Minister has asked the country’s two leading cricket administrators to end a public row that has involved Proteas captain Graeme Smith and threatens to undermine …. Original source  : Feud derailing South Africa’s World Cup hopes.

New Zealand completely outplayed Pak in Wellington ODI: Waqar

WELLINGTON – Pakistan coach Waqar Younis has admitted that his team was completely outplayed by New Zealand in the opening ODI in Wellington.

A five-wicket haul from fast bowler Tim Southee and a quickfire half-century from Jesse Ryder had helped New Zealand win the match by nine wickets.

“New Zealand played outstanding cricket and they … Original article on : New Zealand completely outplayed Pak in Wellington ODI: Waqar.

Tyson’s love for pigeons mirrors Brando’s ‘Waterfront’ boxer character

LONDON – It seems Mike Tyson has some similarities with the boxer character actor Marlon Brando played in 1954 movie ‘On The Waterfront’, with both sharing a love for pigeons.

Tyson, 44, the self-styled “baddest man on the planet”, is to be featured in a six-part series on the Animal Planet channel, and his fascination with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tyson’s love for pigeons mirrors Brando’s ‘Waterfront’ boxer character.

Senior Pak cricketers ‘either fade away or are made to fade away’: Yousuf

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan batsman Mohammad Yousuf, who was omitted from the national squad for the upcoming 50-over World Cup, has said that senior players in the country “either fade away or are made to fade away”.

Yousuf admitted that he is disappointed at not being named in the 15-man squad, but said that his international …. Source article  : Senior Pak cricketers ‘either fade away or are made to fade away’: Yousuf.

Doctor who helped Pele father twins on run after sexually assault, rape convictions

LONDON – A leading doctor, who helped football legend Pele to father twins in his 50s, is on run after being convicted of sexually assaulting or raping 39 of his female patients at his clinic in Sao Paulo, Brazil, between 1995 and 2007.

Roger Abdelmassih, 67, was sentenced to 278 years in prison in November last …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Doctor who helped Pele father twins on run after sexually assault, rape convictions.

Misbah ideal man to lead Pak in World Cup, says Salman Butt

ISLAMABAD – Former Pakistan Test captain Salman Butt has said that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) must appoint Misbah-ul-Haq as the captain of the national team for the upcoming 50-over World Cup in the Indian sub-continent.

“This is more or less the same team that plays in Tests and one-day matches. But when they played recently … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Misbah ideal man to lead Pak in World Cup, says Salman Butt.

Paes-Bhupathi in Australian Open quarterfinals

MELBOURNE – India’s Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi moved into the men’s doubles quarterfinals of the Australian Open tennis tournament here Monday.

The third-seeded Paes and Bhupathi won 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 against the 13th seeded Spanish duo of Tommy Robredo and Marcell Granollers in the third round.
In the quarterfinals, the Indian duo will face …. Read the original article  : Paes-Bhupathi in Australian Open quarterfinals.

Jay Cutler Injury Adds Woes To Bears

CHICAGO, (GaeaTimes.com) – Chicago Bears QuarterBack Jay Cutler’s injury is now posing to be quite a threat to the team who are still recovering from Sunday’s loss at the hands of Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship match. According to reports, 27-year-old Jay Cutler who was taken off the field during the third …. Read the original article  : Jay Cutler Injury Adds Woes To Bears.

Sharath, Shamini win titles

KOLKATA – Achanta Sharath Kamal bagged the men’s honours while Shamini Kumaresan clinched the women’s title in contrasting styles at the 72nd National and Inter-state Table Tennis Championships here Sunday.

Sharath, representing Petroleum Sports Promotion Board (PSPB), came back from the jaws of defeat to put it across teammate Soumyadeep Roy in a gruelling seven-setter … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sharath, Shamini win titles.

Mark Sanchez Picks Nose, In Public View

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Mark Sanchez managed to gain a huge lot of publicity during the game of the New York Jets against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The strangest part was, he had not even stepped into the game yet; all that he was doing was stand on the sidelines and watching, along with his …. Original article  : Mark Sanchez Picks Nose, In Public View.

Caroline Wozniacki Defeats Francesca Schiavone

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Despite losing the first set at the quarter-finals of the Australian Open, Caroline Wozniacki made her way back into the game at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday. The Danish tennis star registered a well-deserved place for herself at the semi-finals of the tournament by beating Italy’s Francesca Schiavone 3-6 6-3 … Read more >>.

Anderson played Ashes in Australia with back pain

ADELAIDE – England strike bowler James Anderson has revealed that he played the victorious Ashes series Down Under with a back injury, and added that at times, he feared he might ruin his Ashes campaign.

Anderson said that felt stiffness in his back during the third Test at Perth. Now, he says that the pain had … Read more »»».

Newcastle FC owner gambles away 970K quid at a casino

LONDON – Newcastle United football club owner Mike Ashley blew up a staggering 970,000 pounds in just a couple of hours gambling at a casino, the Daily Mail has reported.

Ashley and team manager Alan Pardew, who initially hit a winning streak and scooped up 130,000 pounds, then went on to lose a huge amount on …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Newcastle FC owner gambles away 970K quid at a casino.

Suspended Aamer features in practice match

KARACHI – Suspended fast bowler Mohammed Aamer created another stir by featuring in a practice match at Rawalpindis international cricket stadium Monday and that too under a coach employed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The provisional ban imposed on the 18-year-old fast bowler by the International Cricket Council (ICC) barred him from taking part … Read : Suspended Aamer features in practice match.

Inzamam blasts PCB for dividing Pak team into Afridi and Misbah camps

LAHORE – Former Pakistan cricket captain Inzamamul Haq has slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board for creating factions within the national side by delaying the naming of a captain for next month’s World Cup.

Inzamam, who played 120 Test matches for Pakistan scoring 25 centuries, said the delay had disrupted the team’s preparations for the showpiece …. Source  : Inzamam blasts PCB for dividing Pak team into Afridi and Misbah camps.

Oz eves reclaim Ashes on one-off Sydney Test

SYDNEY – Australia have restored some much needed cricketing pride with the women’s team wrestling the Ashes back from England.

A match-winning knock from Sarah Elliott, 81 not out, led Australia to an emotion-charged seven-wicket victory in the one-off Test at Bankstown Oval in Sydney today.

The match was in the balance at the start of the …. Original source  : Oz eves reclaim Ashes on one-off Sydney Test.

Committee deciding on Olympic Stadium bid says it needs more time

LONDON – The Olympic Park Legacy Company has decided it needs more time to reach a decision on a preferred bidder for the Olympic Stadium.

It is due to consider rival bids from Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United.

According to The Guardian, both clubs have been forced to recalibrate their lobbying strategies after being asked for …. Read the original article  : here.

Jharkhand swimmers practise on the ground!

RANCHI – With less than a month to go before Jharkhand hosts the 34th National Games, the state’s swimming team still does not have a swimming pool to practice in. Instead, the swimmers are ‘practicing’ inside a flat here, where they lie on the ground and thrash about as if in water!

Not only that, …. Original article  : Jharkhand swimmers practise on the ground!.

Australian Open: Federer rolls Stan as Wozniacki survives scare

MELBOURNE – Roger Federer put impeccable championship form on display as Tuesday’s highly touted all-Swiss Australian Open quarter-final evolved into just another winning walkabout for the world number two in 6-1, 6-3, 6-3 drilling of Stanislas Wawrinka.

Women’s top seed Caroline Wozniacki kept a tenuous grip on her number one ranking as she preyed on … Original source on Gaea Times at : Australian Open: Federer rolls Stan as Wozniacki survives scare.

Sky Sports presenter apologises for UK soccer sexism row

LONDON – Sky Sports presenter Richards Keys has apologised to assistant soccer referee Sian Massey for the sexist comments he made about her.

Keys and co-presenter Andy Gray were dropped from Monday night’s program after the off-camera comments about Massey were captured on their microphones.

A Professional Game Match Officials spokesperson confirmed that Keys had telephoned the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sky Sports presenter apologises for UK soccer sexism row.

Barca ready to sell full back Alves to Man City, says Cruyff

LONDON – Barcelona’s honorary president and former Dutch international Johan Cruyff believes the Spanish club is ready to sell 25-million-pound-rated Dani Alves to Manchester City.

Attacking fullback Alves is nearing the end of his Barca contract, and Cruyff thinks Barcelona might cash in on the Brazil star while they can.

The Sun quoted the Dutch legend, … Original article on : Barca ready to sell full back Alves to Man City, says Cruyff.

Rocking Roo will strike for Man U against Blackpool: Veteran Giggs

LONDON – Manchester United veteran Ryan Giggs has warned Blackpool, which is Indian owned, that goal-shy striker Wayne Rooney is ready to rock.

Though Rooney has just scored once from open play – three in total – for his club this season, Giggs believes it is only a matter of time before the floodgates open again.

The … Read more >>.

Ratings prove one-day international cricket isn’t dead yet

MELBOURNE – If fresh ratings are anything to go by, one-day international cricket has been given the “kiss of life”.

Figures released by industry body Free TV show the opening one-day international between Australia and England at the MCG attracted a staggering 2.57 million viewers.

Channel Nine’s cricket coverage has also consistently out rated Channel Seven’s Australian [..] Read the original article: here.

Oz selectors delighted with Lee’s form going into World Cup

ADELAIDE – Australian fast bowler Brett Lee could be just as invaluable to Australia’s World Cup campaign in the Indian subcontinent as current golden boy Shane Watson, given his form in the ongoing one-day series against England.

According to The Age, the reversal in Australia’s fortunes this summer has coincided with Lee’s return to national colours.

The … Original article on : Oz selectors delighted with Lee’s form going into World Cup.

Clarke has till end of World Cup to regain form: Greg Chappell

ADELAIDE – Australia’s full-time selector Greg Chappell has guaranteed vice-captain Michael Clarke’s spot in the national squad until after the World Cup that is being played in the Indian subcontinent, despite the latter struggling both on and off the field.

Clarke, 29, has contributed a solitary half-century in 12 test and one-day digs this summer … Original source on Gaea Times at : Clarke has till end of World Cup to regain form: Greg Chappell.

Farrel’s hattrick helps Oz eves close in on the Ashes

SYDNEY – The Australian women’s cricket team is 169 runs away from achieving what their male counterparts failed so dismally to do this summer – win back the Ashes on home soil.

Australia was 1-29 at stumps on day three chasing 198 for victory in the one-off Test against England at Bankstown Oval with one day …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Federer crushes Wawrinka, enters Oz Open semi-final for eighth time

MELBOURNE – Swiss Grand Slam champion Roger Federer crushed countryman Stanislas Wawrinka in straight sets to reach the Australian Open semi finals on Tuesday.

Federer won 6-1 6-3 6-3 in a match lasting an hour and 47 minutes.

According to the Daily Telegraph, Federer is now through to his eighth consecutive Australian Open semi final.

Wawrinka, who … Read : Federer crushes Wawrinka, enters Oz Open semi-final for eighth time.

Twitter posts not helping Clarke’s public image

MELBOURNE – Australian cricket vice-captain Michael Clarke continues to alienate himself from the nation’s public with his off-field actions.

According to the Daily Telegraph, Clarke’s comments on the social network site Twitter have left his fans dissatisfied. The responses to his Twitter comments show that he is mostly unloved by cricket fans and the sporting …. Source article  : Twitter posts not helping Clarke’s public image.

China’s Li Na ousts Germany’s Petkovic to enter Oz Open semi-finals

MELBOURNE – Chinese ninth seed Li Na entered her second consecutive Australian Open semi-final after comprehensively defeating Germany’s Andrea Petkovic 6-2 6-4 in just 80 minutes.

Li moved well, keeping Petkovic on the defensive for most points despite a taped right knee, which she had surgery on in 2008.

Li joins Kim Clijsters and Caroline Wozniacki as … Original source on Gaea Times at : China’s Li Na ousts Germany’s Petkovic to enter Oz Open semi-finals.

Pakistan confident of making strong comeback by winning third one-dayer: Intikhab

WELLINGTON – Pakistan is confident of making a strong comeback in the ongoing one-day series against New Zealand, team manager Intikhab Alam has said.

Speaking to SAMAA TV at Queenstown Events Center on Wednesday, Intikhab expressed his disappointment over … Read more >>.

PCB to probe whether suspended Pak pacer Aamir played practice game

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken notice of reports that pacer Mohammad Aamir, who is currently under ICC suspension over spot-fixing claims, had bowled a few overs in a practice match at a Rawalpindi stadium.

“The … Original article on : PCB to probe whether suspended Pak pacer Aamir played practice game.

Tremlett earns ECB incremental contract following Ashes heroics

LONDON – The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has rewarded fast bowler Chris Tremlett with an incremental contract for the 2010-11 international season following his impressive tour of Australia.

Tremlett has played in three Tests and three ODI so far … Read more >>.

Australian Open: Paes-Bhupathi storm into semifinals

MELBOURNE – India’s Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi stormed into the men’s doubles semifinals of the Australian Open tennis here Wednesday.

The third-seeded Indian pair dispatched eighth seeded Michael Llodra of France and Nenad Zimonjic of Serbia 6-4, 6-4. Llodra and Zimonjic had beaten India’s Rohan Bopanna and Aisam-ul Haq Qureshi of Pakistan … Read more »»».

Murray battles past Dolgopolov to reach Australian Open semi-finals

MELBOURNE – World No.5 Andy Murray moved into the semi-finals of the Australian Open on Wednesday with a testing four-set win over World No.46 Alexandr Dolgopolov of Ukraine.

Murray battled past Dolgopolov 7-5, 6-3, 6-7 (3-7), 6-3 in three hours and six minutes at the Melbourne Park.

“It was very tough. Every point against him is different, …. Source  : Murray battles past Dolgopolov to reach Australian Open semi-finals.

Ronaldo has his initials emblazoned throughout his house!

LONDON – Soccer ace Cristiano Ronaldo seems to be obsessed with his own name.

The former Man United ace has his initials stitched into his pillows and cushions.

The 25-year-old even has a huge CR logo over the door of his Madrid mansion.

Architect Jo Torres spilled the beans on the 200,000-pounds a-week star on Spanish TV.

“The design … Read : Ronaldo has his initials emblazoned throughout his house!.

Clarke’s India-based coach backs him to fire in remaining ODIs against England

SYDNEY – Michael Clarke’s coach Neil D’Costa believes that the stand-in Australian captain will come out stronger in the remaining matches of the ODI series against England.

D’Costa said that Clarke would now start focusing on his game as Australia has rediscovered its winning ways after a horror Ashes series.

Clarke has received counsel from the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Clarke’s India-based coach backs him to fire in remaining ODIs against England.

Mourinho signs Man City striker Adebayor on loan

LONDON – Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has signed Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor on loan to solve his striker problem.

Mourinho desperately needs a striker as Argentinian star Gonzalo Higuain has been ruled out for four months with a back injury.

Adebayor will have a medical at the Bernabeu today before signing the deal, which will …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mourinho signs Man City striker Adebayor on loan.

Former Black Cap Bell retires from cricket

CHRISTCHURCH – Former Black Caps batsman Matthew Bell has retired from all forms of cricket after 17 years at first-class level.

Bell today retired after struggling with injuries over the past two seasons.ell, 33, said after 17 years of first-class cricket he no longer had the commitment required to train and perform at the highest level …. Read the original article  : Former Black Cap Bell retires from cricket.

Vettori to miss third ODI against Pakistan

QUEENSTOWN – New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori will sit out the third one-day cricket international against Pakistan at Christchurch on Saturday.

The decision to rest Vettori was taken even as the second one-day international to be played between the two teams was washed out here.

Wellington left-arm spinner Luke Woodcock replaces Vettori, while batsman Kane Williamson and … Original article on : Vettori to miss third ODI against Pakistan.

Mike Tyson becomes a dad for the 8th time

MELBOURNE – Former heavyweight boxing champ Mike Tyson has become a father for the eighth time.

According to Radar Online, Tyson and his wife Lakiha Spicer welcomed their second child – a baby boy – on Tuesday.

It is Tyson’s eighth child from a list of ex-wives and girlfriends, reports the Daily Telegraph.

It is also his …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Warne’s ex-wife moves out of Melbourne family home

MELBOURNE – Former Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne’s ex-wife, Simone Callahan, has moved out of their nine million dollar family home in Melbourne.

According to the Sun, mum-of-three Simone carried boxes from the mansion before heading to her new house.

The 40-year-old’s exit from the house comes days after Shane was snapped kissing British actress and model Liz …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Warne’s ex-wife moves out of Melbourne family home.

Bhupathi-Paes through to Australian Open semi-finals

MELBOURNE – The India Express, Mahesh Bhupathi and Leander Paes, have entered the semi-finals of the Australian Open with a straight sets win over Michael Lodra and Nenad Zimonjic.

The third-seeded pair took an hour and 31 minutes to outclass the French-Serbian pair 6-4, 6-4 in their quarter-final clash at Melbourne Park.

Llodra and Zimonjic had beaten … Read more : Bhupathi-Paes through to Australian Open semi-finals.

Warne slams employer Herald Sun for writing ‘absolute crap’ about Oz Open ‘antics’

MELBOURNE – Former Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne has accused Herald Sun, a morning tabloid newspaper based in Australia, of reporting “absolute crap” about his “antics” at the Australian Open.

The tabloid had reported that Warne was hoping for “star VIP treatment for 14 of his closest friends” at Melbourne Park, and that he had asked for … Read more »»».

Zvonareva, Clijsters sail into Australian Open semi-finals

MELBOURNE – World No.2 Vera Zvonareva moved into the semi-finals of the Australian Open on Wednesday with a win over World No.25 Petra Kvitova of the Czech Republic.

Zvonareva finished off giant-killer of the tournament Kvitova 6-2, 6-4 in one hour and 20 minutes at Melbourne Park, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

The 26-year-old, who … Read : Zvonareva, Clijsters sail into Australian Open semi-finals.

Shane Warne’s ‘Warnie’ tops list of Worst Aussie TV program

MELBOURNE – Former cricketer Shane Warne’s chat show ‘Warnie’ has topped the list of worst Australian TV program in a poll.

Switched On conducted the poll on more than 2500 readers and 41-year-old Warne’s show received 30.12 percent votes for being the worst.

“Shane Warne made the mistake of making his chat show about him and not …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Shane Warne’s ‘Warnie’ tops list of Worst Aussie TV program.

Anderson aims to ‘turn things round’ in Oz ODI series for World Cup momentum

ADELAIDE – England fast bowler James Anderson believes that his return can help save the national team from humiliation in the ongoing seven-match ODI series against Australia.

Anderson is back in the team for the fourth ODI in Adelaide after his two-week mid-tour break at home.

England is currently 3-0 down in the series, and showing alarming … Original article on : Anderson aims to ‘turn things round’ in Oz ODI series for World Cup momentum.

Oz selectors against resting key players ahead of World Cup: Chappell

ADELAIDE – Australia’s full-time selector Greg Chappell has said that key players such as Shane Watson and Brett Lee would continuing participating in the ongoing ODI series against England, at least until the team wraps up the series.

Australia currently leads the seven-match series 3-0.

“We certainly want to keep them fresh, but we also want to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Oz selectors against resting key players ahead of World Cup: Chappell.

‘I’ll definitely be fine for World Cup from the start,’ says Swann

ADELAIDE – England off-spinner Graeme Swann, who has been ruled out of the ODI series against Australian due to a back injury, is confident that he will be fit for the upcoming World Cup in the Indian sub-continent.

Swann suffered a severe back spasm that made walking, sitting down and even standing up extremely painful.

He already …. Original source  : ‘I’ll definitely be fine for World Cup from the start,’ says Swann.

Sehwag, Sangakkara bat in UN campaign to combat AIDS

UNITED NATIONS – Rivals of the field, Indian cricket opener Virender Sehwag and Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara are batting together against a common enemy in a United Nations-backed campaign to fight HIV/AIDS.

The players feature in a public service announcement, released Tuesday and available free to all broadcasters across the globe, encouraging young people … Read : Sehwag, Sangakkara bat in UN campaign to combat AIDS.

Sky Sports football presenter Richard Keys resigns over role in sexism scandal

LONDON – Sky Sports football presenter Richard Keys has resigned from his 500,000 pounds-a-year job over the sexism scandal after admitting that he had behaved in a ‘prehistoric’ way towards women.

Keys had earlier made a public apology for his derogatory comments about female Premier League match official Sian Massey and West Ham United executive Karren … Read : Sky Sports football presenter Richard Keys resigns over role in sexism scandal.

Force India confirm Paul di Resta for 2011 Formula One season

LONDON – Force India has signed 24-year-old Scot Paul di Resta as a full-time driver for the upcoming Formula One season.

Di Rest has stepped up from the test and reserve role he enjoyed last year, and will now partner German driver Adrian Sutil.

Nico Hulkenberg, who last year drove for Williams, has taken on the test …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Force India confirm Paul di Resta for 2011 Formula One season.

Clijsters sweeps past Zvonareva into Australian Open final

MELBOURNE – World No.3 Kim Clijsters moved into the final of the Australian Open on Thursday with a facile straight-sets win over World No.2 Vera Zvonareva.

Clijsters finished off the Russian 6-3, 6-3 in an hour and 13 minutes at Melbourne Park, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

Zvonareva’s big match temperament has been questioned in the past …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Clijsters sweeps past Zvonareva into Australian Open final.

Warne’s comments would create ‘major headache’ for Herald Sun: Ex-editor

MELBOURNE – Former Herald Sun editor Bruce Guthrie has said that Australian leg-spin legend Shane Warne’s comments about the Melbourne-based morning tabloid newspaper would create a major headache for senior editors.

Warne had earlier accused the Herald Sun of reporting “absolute crap” about his “antics” at the Australian Open.

“It’s always a major headache when … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Warne’s comments would create ‘major headache’ for Herald Sun: Ex-editor.

Suspended Pak pacer Aamir apologises for playing practice game despite ICC ban

ISLAMABAD – Suspended Pakistan pacer Mohammad Aamir has apologised to a Pakistan cricket official for violating an International Cricket Council (ICC)-imposed ban by bowling in a club match.

Rawalpindi chief Naeem Akhtar said that Aamir “was not aware he could not compete even at club level,” the Daily Times reported.

Aamir had bowled a few overs in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Suspended Pak pacer Aamir apologises for playing practice game despite ICC ban.

Ronaldo’s kids’ mystery mother ‘is dead’

LONDON – The mystery mother of Cristiano Ronaldo’s baby is ‘dead’, the Real Madrid winger’s sister has claimed.

According to the Sun, Katia Aveiro spoke out as she denied stories about the woman’s identity, but did not explain when or how she had died.

“There is no woman calling him. There is no mother, no telephone calls, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ronaldo’s kids’ mystery mother ‘is dead’.

Bhupathi-Paes through to Australian Open final

MELBOURNE – The India Express, Mahesh Bhupathi and Leander Paes, have entered the final of the Australian Open with a three set win over Max Mirnyi and Daniel Nestor.

The third-seeded pair got the better of the second-seeded pair 7-6, 4-6, 6-3 in two hours and 20 minutes in their semi-final clash at Melbourne …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Li Na becomes first Asian woman to reach Slam final with upset win over Wozniacki

MELBOURNE – World No.9 Li Na has shocked World No.1 Caroline Wozniacki in the Australian Open semi-finals to become the first Asian woman to reach a Grand Slam final.

After an error-strewn opening set, Li fought back to win 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, in a match lasting two hours and 35 minutes at Melbourne Park.

Wozniacki, …. Original article  : Li Na becomes first Asian woman to reach Slam final with upset win over Wozniacki.

Tour de France winner Alberto Contador receives one-year doping ban

LONDON – The Spanish Cycling Federation (SCF) has handed Tour de France winner Alberto Contador a one-year ban for his positive drug test from the 2010 Tour de France.

Contador had tested positive for clenbuterol, a banned weight loss/muscle-building drug also used to fatten cattle.

The three-time Tour winner denies any wrongdoing and says it came from …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tour de France winner Alberto Contador receives one-year doping ban.

Elbow injury forces ’shocked’ Justine Henin to retire from tennis for ‘good’

MELBOURNE – Belgian tennis ace Justine Henin has retired for the second time because of a right elbow injury that she aggravated at the Australian Open.

Henin had first quit the sport in 2008 when she was ranked No.1 in the world.

She had a change of heart and returned to the game at the beginning of … Read : Elbow injury forces ’shocked’ Justine Henin to retire from tennis for ‘good’.

Australian Open: Paes-Bhupathi in men’s doubles final

MELBOURNE – India’s Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi stayed on course for the maiden Australian Open tennis title as they made it to the men’s doubles final with a hard-fought win over Belarussian Max Mirnyi and Canada’s Daniel Nestor here Thursday.

The third seeded Indian pair, who are playing together after nine years, won … Original article on : Australian Open: Paes-Bhupathi in men’s doubles final.

Spanish King’s Cup: Barcelona-Real Madrid final on the cards

MADRID – A Barcelona-Real Madrid finaL in the Spanish King’s Cup is on the cards after Wednesday’s semi-final first-leg clashes.

Barca despatched Almeria 5-0 at home, and Real won 1-0 at holders Sevilla. The second legs will be played Feb 2.
The big two have not met in the final since 1990 – a 1-0 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Spanish King’s Cup: Barcelona-Real Madrid final on the cards.

Shootout takes lacklustre Inter Milan to cup semis

ROME – Inter Milan prevailed 5-4 Wednesday over Napoli on penalties after a scoreless draw to qualify for the Italian Cup semi-finals.

The speed of Edinson Cavani and Ezequiel Lavezzi sustained by a solid midfield that also protects a three-man defence were Napoli’s trademark tactics against the powerful cup holders and European champions.
Both sides …. Original source  : Shootout takes lacklustre Inter Milan to cup semis.

Birmingham strike back to reach Carling Cup final

LONDON – Birmingham City came from two goals behind to beat West Ham United 3-1 in the second leg Wednesday and reach the Carling Cup final by a 4-3 aggregate.

Carlton Cole put West Ham 3-1 up on aggregate with a remarkable long-range effort, but Birmingham were much improved after half-time, and pulled level with …. Source article  : Birmingham strike back to reach Carling Cup final.

Bayern cruise into last four in German Cup

BERLIN – Bayern Munich made sure of a place in the semi-finals of the German Cup with a 4-0 drubbing of second-division Alemannia Aachen, but first-division sides Hoffenheim and Kaiserslautern crashed out Wednesday.

Thomas Mueller hit a quick second-half double and substitute Arjen Robben was on also target late on after a first-half goal from …. Original source  : Bayern cruise into last four in German Cup.

Benzema leaves Real Madrid well placed to reach cup final

MADRID – Real Madrid are well placed to reach the final of the Spanish King’s Cup after a 1-0 win away to dull Sevilla Wednesday, in a tense, disjointed semi-final first leg clash.

The only goal in the Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan was a handsome solo strike from Karim Benzema. The French forward took a short … Read more »»».

Cyclist Contador set for one-year ban

MADRID – The Spanish Cycling Federation (RFEC) is to ban Tour de France winner Alberto Contador for one year for doping, the cyclists lawyers have been told.

The RFEC have informed Contador’s lawyers of the decision which will be regarded as provisional pending any appeal within 10 days from the Spanish cyclist, federation officials have … Read more : Cyclist Contador set for one-year ban.

German Cup : Duisburg down Kaiserslautern, Cottbus oust Hoffenheim

BERLIN – Second-division sides MSV Duisburg and Energie Cottbus marched in the semi-finals of the German Cup with upset victories over top-flight cups Wednesday.

Duisburg, third in the second division, dumped Kaiserslautern out with a 2-0 victory while Cottbus shocked Hoffenheim with a late goal for a 1-0 win to continue a run of victories …. Read the original article  : here.

AC Milan clinch cup semis with brace from Pato

ROME – AC Milan qualified for the semi-finals of the Italian Cup Wednesday with a 2-1 win at Sampdoria.

Pato seemed to have settled matters in the first half hour with a brace that the Devils defended with minor problems in the first half.
The Brazilian volleyed home off a header from compatriot Thiago Silva [..] Read the original article: here.

Gaganjeet Bhullar hogs limelight at Bangladesh Golf

DHAKA – Gaganjeet Bhullar grabbed the lead for India on the opening day of the American Express Bangladesh Open Professional Golf Championship 2011 with a classic four under 68 at the Kurmitola Golf Club here.

Bhullars compatriots Raju Ali Mollah and Keshav Kapoor are in the tied second with matching scores of three … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gaganjeet Bhullar hogs limelight at Bangladesh Golf.

Gatecrashing Oz teen’s technique advice to Clarke slightly embarrassing: D’Costa

MELBOURNE – Michael Clarke’s childhood mentor and India-based coach, Neil D’Costa, has said that Australian teenager Daniel Brew’s advice to the stand-in skipper was ’slightly embarrassing’.

Brew became an overnight celebrity after gatecrashing Clarke’s pre-game … Original source on Gaea Times at : Gatecrashing Oz teen’s technique advice to Clarke slightly embarrassing: D’Costa.

BCCI asks ICC to reconsider decision on Eden

NEW DELHI – The Indian cricket board Friday asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to reconsider its decision of taking away the India-England World Cup match from the Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata.

“We have written a letter to the ICC to reconsider its decision. Now it is up to the ICC to decide, but … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BCCI asks ICC to reconsider decision on Eden.

Premier League footballer’s ‘4-in-a-bed orgy with teammate, 2 brunettes’

LONDON – A video featuring a star Premier League footballer participating in an orgy with two brunettes and an international teammate has emerged.

He plays for the same top ten clubs as another ace who is at the centre of an alleged blackmail plot over a filmed orgy with three Swedish blondes.

The 47-minute film has shown … Read more : Premier League footballer’s ‘4-in-a-bed orgy with teammate, 2 brunettes’.

Shane Warne ‘wooed Liz Hurley back with Ping Pong the parrot’

LONDON – Spin bowler Shane Warne gifted lover Liz Hurley a lovebird called Ping Pong in order to woo her back.

The Aussie cricket legend is thought to have had the parrot delivered to Hurley in LA last week.

And she is now planning to teach the blue-fronted Amazonian bird, Ping Pong, to sing Waltzing Matilda, reports [..] Read the original article: here.

Sky Sports football presenter Keys’ wife defends his sexist jibes as “boys’ banter”

LONDON – Sky Sports football presenter Richard Keys, who resigned from his 500,000 pounds-a-year job over a sexism scandal, has been defended by his wife, who dismissed his sexist jibes at women as “boys’ banter”.

Keys announced his resignation on Wednesday, just 24 hours after his co-presenter Andy Gray had been sacked from his 1.7 million …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sky Sports football presenter Keys’ wife defends his sexist jibes as “boys’ banter”.

Man U star Edwin Van Der Sar to hang up his gloves in May

LONDON – Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin Van Der Sar has confirmed that he will hang up his gloves in May.

“It’s been coming for a while. After playing for so many years, you reach a point where you have to make a decision. There are a couple of things to consider – whether you still have …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Man U star Edwin Van Der Sar to hang up his gloves in May.

Jeff Fisher Leaves Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE (GaeaTimes.com)- The football arena was rendered an all of a sudden shock after the Tennessee Titans on Thursday night anno0unced that the team will no longer have Jeff Fisher as their head coach. That the 52 year old coach who has been the longest-tenured coach of NFL will no longer stick to his …. Read the original article  : here.

India can emerge as world champions if players play to potential: Kapil Dev

DUBAI – Kapil Dev, the man who lifted the World Cup for India in 1983 believes that India has the strongest batting line up in the world, and has the potential to lift this year’s World Cup being played in the Indian subcontinent.

Answering a query from Gulf News on whether India has a balanced team, …. Source  : India can emerge as world champions if players play to potential: Kapil Dev.

Tendulkar, the right choice for ICC WC brand ambassador: Kapil Dev

DUBAI – Former Indian cricket captain Kapil Dev has praised the International Cricket Council (ICC) for selecting batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar as its brand ambassador for the 2011 World Cup.

“I am thankful to ICC for naming Tendulkar as the brand ambassador of the World Cup. I am happy they did not pick any film …. Source  : Tendulkar, the right choice for ICC WC brand ambassador: Kapil Dev.

Injured Tait doubtful for Brisbane ODI against England

BRISBANE – Continuing doubts over the fitness of Australian fast bowler Shaun Tait have left the selection of the pace attack for Sunday’s fifth ODI against England up in the air.

Tait, on the comeback trail from a three-month lay-off following elbow surgery last October, injured a gluteus muscle in Australia’s win over England in Hobart … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Injured Tait doubtful for Brisbane ODI against England.

Johnson to use flood spirit as motivation for Brisbane ODI comeback

BRISBANE – Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson insists that the spirit shown in flood-affected Queensland will lift the team in Sunday’s fifth ODI against England.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Australian team visited some of the state’s worst hit areas around Goodna west of Brisbane on Friday, and was touched by what they saw.

“Days …. Source article  : Johnson to use flood spirit as motivation for Brisbane ODI comeback.

Honest toiler Ferrer likes his obscurity, Murray admits to being under pressure

MELBOURNE – Australian Open semi-finalist David Ferrer, it seems, enjoys anonymity.

A long-standing member of the tennis elite, Ferrer chases neither attention nor publicity or fame.

According to the Herald Sun, he is, in an old-fashioned sense, an honest toiler, and if he had his way, he would rather be seen, not heard.

The indefatigable Spaniard is also … Original article on : Honest toiler Ferrer likes his obscurity, Murray admits to being under pressure.

Smith backs run-choked Clarke to fire in remaining ODIs against England

SYDNEY – Australian all-rounder Steve Smith believes that struggling stand-in captain Michael Clarke will come out stronger in the remaining matches of the ODI series against England.

Clarke has made only 70 runs at an average of 17.50 in four ODIs against England, which follows his miserable average of 21 in the Ashes series.
“He is working …. Original article  : Smith backs run-choked Clarke to fire in remaining ODIs against England.

ICL stonewalling Pak cricketers’ 2.2 million dollar overdue payment bid: Moin Khan

KARACHI – The Pakistani players who played in the now-defunct Indian Cricket League (ICL) face a bleak future in respect of securing their pending payments worth two million dollars.

Officials who ran the ICL, which was not officially recognised by the BCCI or the ICC, refused to respond to former Pakistan captain Moin Khan, who … Read : ICL stonewalling Pak cricketers’ 2.2 million dollar overdue payment bid: Moin Khan.

Experience of no consequence in Oz Open final: Clijsters

MELBOURNE – World Number Two Kim Clijsters believes that her Grand Slam experience will count for little in Saturday night’s Australian Open women’s final against China’s Li Na.

Though it will be Clijsters’ ninth appearance in a Grand Slam final and Li’s first, the Herald Sun quoted the Belgian, as saying: “Everybody reacts a little differently … Original article on : Experience of no consequence in Oz Open final: Clijsters.

Liverpool rejects 35 million pound Chelsea bid for Torres

LONDON – Liverpool has dismissed Chelsea’s 35 million pound bid for Spanish striker Fernando Torres.

According to the Sun, Blues owner Roman Abramovich had personally set the offer in motion, after pinpointing Torres as his No.1 transfer target.

The move provides confirmation of Abramovich’s backing for manager Carlo Ancelotti.

However, a Liverpool source said: “Liverpool have …. Source article  : Liverpool rejects 35 million pound Chelsea bid for Torres.

Federer backs Murray to win Oz Open 2011

MELBOURNE – After losing his Australian Open semi-final match to Novak Djokovic, Swiss tennis great Roger Federer has predicted that Britain’s Andy Murray will win this year’s Australian Open title.

Federer, who was hammered in straight sets by third seed Djokovic – 7-6, 7-5, 6-4 – said: “I fancy Murray’s chances to go through.”

The Daily …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Federer backs Murray to win Oz Open 2011.

Botham warns critics ‘quality player’ Clarke will soon be over his ‘rough patch’

MELBOURNE – Former England all-rounder Ian Botham reckons that the current spate of criticism of stand-in Australian captain Michael Clarke is unfair.

Botham said that Clarke’s position in the team for the World Cup and beyond should not be questioned.

“He’s having a rough patch with the bat, but he’s not the first captain to go through …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Botham warns critics ‘quality player’ Clarke will soon be over his ‘rough patch’.

Schumacher vows to ‘fight for wins this year and fight for championship’

LONDON – Seven-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher believes that 2011 will be his year.

Schumacher had a nightmare return to F1 with Mercedes team in 2010, and had finished 10th in the drivers’ standings.

It was the first season since his debut season in 1991 that the 42-year-old finished without a win, pole position, podium or …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Schumacher vows to ‘fight for wins this year and fight for championship’.

ICC takes away India-England World Cup game from Eden Gardens (Roundup)

KOLKATA/NEW DELHI – Leaving the organisers red-faced, the International Cricket Council (ICC) Thursday ruled Eden Gardens in Kolkata unsuitable for hosting the Feb 27 India-England World Cup tie due to its unpreparedness.

After the hue and cry over the last-minute scrambling to get Delhi ready for the Commonwealth Games last year, this is yet another … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ICC takes away India-England World Cup game from Eden Gardens (Roundup).

Clarke says injured Ponting may yet take part in ongoing England ODI series

BRISBANE – Stand-in Australian captain Michael Clarke reckons that injured skipper Ricky Ponting may rejoin the squad ahead of next month’s World Cup in the Indian sub-continent.

Ponting had fractured the little finger in his left hand while attempting …. Source article  : Clarke says injured Ponting may yet take part in ongoing England ODI series.

Clarke ready to ‘train his backside off’ in quest to find form

BRISBANE – Stand-in Australian captain Michael Clarke has said that he is confident of bouncing back to his best ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

“Honestly I am definitely sick of talking about it (his form) and a lot of people are sick of reading about it,” the Sydney Morning Herald quoted …. Original article  : Clarke ready to ‘train his backside off’ in quest to find form.

Rod Laver backs Murray to overcome Djokovic in Australian Open final

MELBOURNE – Australian tennis legend Rod Laver believes that World No.5 Andy Murray can break his Grand Slam drought by winning the men’s singles title of the ongoing Australian Open.

Laver says that Murray can overcome 2008 champion Novak …. Source article  : Rod Laver backs Murray to overcome Djokovic in Australian Open final.

Tour de France champ Contador vows to fight doping charge, possible suspension

MALLORCA – Three-time Tour de France champion Alberto Contador of Spain has vowed to fight a proposal to suspend him and strip him of his 2010 Tour de France title.

Addressing a news conference in Puigpunyent on the island of Mallorca yesterday, Contador vowed to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tour de France champ Contador vows to fight doping charge, possible suspension.

Torres urges Liverpool to let him join Chelsea

LONDON – Ace striker Fernando Torres has urged Liverpool to agree a deal with Chelsea that will benefit both himself and Anfield.

Chelsea will return with an improved 40 million pounds offer for Torres with the current Premier League champions hopeful …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Torres urges Liverpool to let him join Chelsea.

‘I’m just one match from Slam glory, insists Murray

MELBOURNE – Australian Open finalist and British tennis champion Andy Murray believes that he is only one match away from Grand Slam glory.

After beating Spaniard David Ferrer in a four-set semi-final yesterday, Murray has predicted that he will face a … Read more >>.

Injured Australian fast bowler Bracken calls it a day

SYDNEY – Australian fast bowler Nathan Bracken Saturday announced his retirement from all forms of cricket due to a persistent knee injury.

Bracken represented Australia in 116 One-day Internationals (ODI), taking 174 wickets at an impressive average of 24.36. Bracken also played five Tests but was never able to cement his place in … Read more : Injured Australian fast bowler Bracken calls it a day.

Two Pakistan umpires likely to officiate in IPL IV

MUMBAI – The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) may have reservations against inviting Pakistani players for the latest edition of the Indian Premier League, but two Pakistan umpires are certain to figure in the next IPL season in India, sources have revealed

According to top sources in the BCCI, Pakistan umpires Aleem Dar …. Original article  : Two Pakistan umpires likely to officiate in IPL IV.

Brisbane ODI win would be priceless for Queensland flood victims: Watson

BRISBANE – Australian all-rounder Shane Watson reckons that a series-clinching win in Sunday’s fifth ODI against England in Brisbane would prove priceless for the Queensland flood victims.

Moved by the fighting spirit in the devastated state, Watson said that players would donate the match fees along with an Australian Cricketers’ Association contribution totalling 190,000 dollars to …. Read the original article  : Brisbane ODI win would be priceless for Queensland flood victims: Watson.

Sky News ’sexist row’ presenters close to joining Al Jazeera TV

LONDON – Sky News presenters Richard Keys and Andy Gray, who were accused of sexist comments against a British female referee during a football match last week, have reportedly quit to join Al Jazeera.

The duo had made derogatory comments against referee Sian Massey and West Ham United executive Karren Brady.

Following the controversy, Sky Sports … Read more >>.

Berbatov set 30-goal target, assured of long-term Man U future

LONDON – Manchester United coach Sir Alex Ferguson has set Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov a 30-goal target and assured him a long-term future at the club.

Berbatov has only 18 months on his contract, leading to suggestions United might cash in on their 30.75 million pound record signing.

Ferguson, however, has been delighted with Berbatov’s prolific scoring … Original article on : Berbatov set 30-goal target, assured of long-term Man U future.

Trott not guilty of obstructing the field, says S. African umpire

BRISBANE – Umpires taking part in the ongoing one-day series between Australia and England have found nothing wrong with middle-order batsman Jonathan Trott’s determination to protect his wicket at all costs.

The Daily Express quoted South African umpire Marais Erasmus, as saying that Trott has been on the right side of the law in the one-day … Read more >>.

Savon Huggins Joins Rutgers Scarlet Knights?

JERSEY CITY (GaeaTimes.com)- Team North Carolina missed it by a whisk as Savon Huggins on Friday gave his verbal commitment to the Rutgers Scarlet Knights for the new season. The running back was successfully able to achieve the dramatic end as he went on to give a shock to the Rutgers by sporting a North …. Read the original article  : Savon Huggins Joins Rutgers Scarlet Knights?.

PCB sends clarification to ICC on ‘Aamir playing despite suspension’ issue

LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has completed its investigation into reports that pacer Mohammad Aamir, who is currently under ICC suspension over spot-fixing claims, had bowled in a domestic match.

The board sent the report to the ICC, which had earlier asked for clarification from the PCB as to how the 18-year-old played … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PCB sends clarification to ICC on ‘Aamir playing despite suspension’ issue.

Oz coaching set-up needs overhaul: Bracken

SYDNEY – Retired left-arm swing bowler Nathan Bracken wants Australian cricket’s coaching setup to be overhauled so players can spend more time with individual mentors.

Bracken signed off tearfully on Saturday, a battered right knee pushing him out of the game earlier than the 33-year-old had wished.

He reserved particular thanks for another left-armer, Bruce Reid, as …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US Figure Skating Championships 2011 Fever Still On

GREENSBORO (GaeaTimes.com)- It was the second day of the most esteemed skating event in the nation, US Figure Skating Championships 2011, and it was marked with the two most exciting events, Ice Dance: Short Dance and Men Short Program at the Greensboro Coliseum.
The Short Dance event was won by Meryl Davis and Charlie White. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Man U midfielder Park Ji-sung retires from international football

LONDON – Manchester United midfielder Park Ji-sung has retired from international football after playing his 100th match in the Asian Cup semi-final defeat by Japan on Tuesday.

Park was not included in South Korea’s team for the 3-2 win over Uzbekistan in the third-place match in Qatar.

His international debut was in 2000 as part of … Original article on : Man U midfielder Park Ji-sung retires from international football.

Liverpool to sign Uruguayan striker Suarez for 23 million pounds

LONDON – Liverpool has agreed to sign Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez from Dutch club Ajax for 23 million pounds.

The deal for the 24-year-old striker is subject to Suarez passing a medical and agreeing to personal terms with the Premier League club.

Liverpool initially bid 12.7 million pounds for Suarez, but Ajax asked them to …. Read the original article  : Liverpool to sign Uruguayan striker Suarez for 23 million pounds.

Football matches postponed in Egypt for security reasons

Cairo, Jan 29 (IANS/AKI) Egypt’s Football Association has postponed all football matches scheduled for Saturday citing security reasons related to the ongoing wave of anti-government protests that have shaken the country since Tuesday, a news website said.

Federation board member Ayman Younes was cited as saying that security authorities had sent a formal letter … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Football matches postponed in Egypt for security reasons.

Sexy swimmer Luiza Hryniewicz to strip off for Playboy

LONDON – Gorgeous swimmer Luiza Hryniewicz is set to strip off for next month’s Playboy magazine.

The Polish stunner is set to make a few ripples away from the pool by posing for the world’s leading men’s magazine.

And topless pictures of the 21-year-old show that she’s certainly a big fan of the breaststroke.

“Swimming was fun, but … Read more »».

Elite Oz batsmen becoming robots because of bowling machines: Smith

SYDNEY – Australia’s coaches must minimise their use of bowling machines and restrict throw-downs in net sessions in order to correct the flawed footwork of some of the batsmen, according to Warren Smith.

Smith, who the likes of former Australian fast bowler Geoff Lawson have … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Elite Oz batsmen becoming robots because of bowling machines: Smith.

Sarfraz Nawaz appreciates Pak’s ‘morale-boosting’ win against New Zealand

ISLAMABAD – Former Pakistan cricketer Sarfraz Nawaz has appreciated the national team’s win against New Zealand in the third one-dayer.

Pakistan levelled the one-day series against the Kiwis following a 43-run victory at Lancaster Park on Saturday.

“It has boosted the morale of the national team and would affect the performance …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sarfraz Nawaz appreciates Pak’s ‘morale-boosting’ win against New Zealand.

Donald terrific asset to New Zealand’s World Cup campaign, says Parore

AUCKLAND – Former New Zealand wicketkeeper Adam Parore believes that bowling coach Allan Donald is a terrific addition to the Black Caps team management ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

The former South African fast bowler was appointed as the bowling coach earlier this month, and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Donald terrific asset to New Zealand’s World Cup campaign, says Parore.

Yousuf, Malik omitted from 30-player list for Pak ‘central contracts’

KARACHI – Pakistan’s cricket selection committee has omitted names of senior players Mohammad Yousuf, Shoaib Malik, Danish Kaneria and Rana Naved from the proposed list of 30 players, who will be awarded fresh central contracts this year.

According to sources close to the selectors, the list has been submitted to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which …. Read the original article  : Yousuf, Malik omitted from 30-player list for Pak ‘central contracts’.

‘Old wives tales’ about footwear behind Oz bowlers injury

SYDNEY – A consultant for a leading sports shoe company has urged Cricket Australia to copy the AFL and order contracted players to wear specialised shoes after he discovered many wore modified cross-trainers.

A number of Australian pacers including Ryan Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and James Pattinson are injured.

Simon Bartold, the international research consultant for … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Old wives tales’ about footwear behind Oz bowlers injury.

How Hou Yifan became world’s youngest ever women’s chess champion

LONDON – Hou Yifan, who has become the youngest ever women’s world chess champion at the age of just 16, is a typical Chinese teenager who has worked almost unimaginably hard to make the most of her talents and opportunities.

But asked the sacrifices required for her daughter’s success, Hou’s mother, a 42-year-old nurse, chooses to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Clarke desperate to play grade cricket to overcome form slump

SYDNEY – To overcome his form slump, Australia’s stand-in skipper Michael Clarke has been desperate to play grade cricket for western suburbs in Sydney.

Clarke raised the idea of turning out for Western Suburbs with coach Tim Nielsen and national selectors earlier in the week, but the initiative was shot down as team management were keen … Read : Clarke desperate to play grade cricket to overcome form slump.

‘Back-to-back Ashes series could dilute interest’

SYDNEY – Australia’s leading experts on sports broadcasting, Colin Smith, has warned that back-to-back Ashes series could dilute interest in the oldest rivalry in cricket.

Smith, who helped broker Cricket Australia’s current telecast agreement with Channel Nine, which expires in 2013, said there was a risk of there being too much of a good thing.

“You’ve got …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Back-to-back Ashes series could dilute interest’.

Clijsters may reconsider tennis plans with Olympic medal beckoning

MELBOURNE – The weekend title success at the Australian Open may have Kim Clijsters even more confused than ever about her tennis future after the 27-year-old beat China’s Li Na to win her fourth major trophy.

“I do think this is probably my last full season that I will be playing,” said the Belgian mother …. Source  : Clijsters may reconsider tennis plans with Olympic medal beckoning.

Devon Alexander Loses To Timothy Bradley

PONTIAC (GaeaTimes.com)- All the ardent followers of WBO junior welterweight champion Timothy Bradley were left extremely disappointed when the much-acclaimed boxer’s bout with fellow American Devon Alexander was halted in the tenth round following an intentional head butt. However, when the three-member judges panel announced Timothy Bradley as the winner of the much-anticipated fight, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Devon Alexander Loses To Timothy Bradley.

Murray says he is mentally stronger in comparison to last year

MELBOURNE – British No.1 Andy Murray believes he is mentally stronger heading into Australian Open final in comparison to last year’s straight sets loss to Roger Federer in 2010 decider.

Murray, who will become the first British men’s grand slam champion since Fred Perry in 1936 if he beats Serbian world No.3 Novak Djokovic on Sunday … Read more : Murray says he is mentally stronger in comparison to last year.

Clarke refuses to quit Twitter, asks critics to ‘take a chill pill’

MELBOURNE – Australia’s stand-in cricket Michael Clarke has said that he would not quit Twitter unless ordered by Cricket Australia.

Clarke, 29, has contributed a solitary half-century in 12 test and one-day matches this summer, but became embroiled in another Twitter storm on Monday.

Clarke felt compelled to Twitter in search of a date for the Allan … Read more »».

I will welcome responsibility of captaining Australia: Watson

SYDNEY – Shane Watson, who is being pushed forward as a candidate to succeed Ricky Ponting, would welcome the responsibility of captaining Australia.

Watson has been among Australia’s best players in a disappointing Ashes summer, and the team’s hierarchy has used his experience and leadership by having him front news conferences that are normally the domain …. Source  : I will welcome responsibility of captaining Australia: Watson.

Oz greats ask CA to come out with master plan for post-Ponting era

MELBOURNE – Former Australian greats fear that the game of cricket is crumbling under a leadership crisis in the country, and have urged Cricket Australia to come out with a master plan for the post-Ponting era.

With skipper Ricky Ponting entering his twilight years, former Test captain Kim Hughes said that deputy Michael Clarke’s form and … Read more >>>.

England’s World Cup campaign has been helped by injuries: Pietersen

LONDON – England batsman Kevin Pietersen has said that his team’s World Cup campaign has been helped by injuries to some of the players.

Bowlers Graeme Swann (back injury), Stuart Broad (stomach injury), and Tim Bresnan (calf injury) have all had time out with problems.

Broad is back with England in Australia while Swann and … Original source on Gaea Times at : England’s World Cup campaign has been helped by injuries: Pietersen.

Kenyans dominate Nagpur marathon

NAGPUR – Kenyans John Kui won the full marathon for men while Jem Muya won the half marathon for women in the third edition of the Nagpur International Marathon Sunday, which saw a participation of more than 1.5 lakh people.

More than 50 international athletes from 16 countries of Africa, Australia and Europe participated in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kenyans dominate Nagpur marathon.

Houston Marathon 2011 Results

HOUSTON (GaeaTimes.com)- The U.S Half-Marathon championship 2011 that was held on Saturday in Houston once again saw a winner from the African sub-continent. Mohamed Trafeh of Morocco won the marathon championship going on to break the record that was set by the American Ryan Hall in 2007. While Ryan Hall had completed it for … Read more »».

Alissa Czisny Clinches US Figure Skating Title

GREENSBORO (GaeaTimes.com)- After disappointing all her fans with a dismal performance during the 2010 US Figure Skating Championships, Alissa Czisny was back in her best form on Saturday, delivering a performance that left the spectators gathered at the Greensboro Coliseum absolutely enthralled. The 23-year-old figure skater showcased a mesmerizing performance at the US Figure … Read more : Alissa Czisny Clinches US Figure Skating Title.

Buddhadeb pads up, bats for Eden

KOLKATA – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Saturday urged International Cricket Council (ICC) president Sharad Pawar to reconsider the decision of shifting the venue of India-England World Cup match from Eden Gardens.

The ICC struck off Eden Gardens as the venue of the important India-England match following an adverse report from its inspection team … Original article on : Buddhadeb pads up, bats for Eden.

Japan defeat Australia to claim fourth Asian Cup title

DOHA – Japan Saturday won an unprecedented fourth Asian Cup title after beating Australia 1-0 after extra time in the final played in the Khalifa Stadium.

Substitute Tadanari Lee scored the only goal of the match for Japan.
Although both sides played a cautious game, there were scoring opportunities throughout the match, with Japanese goalkeeper …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Japan defeat Australia to claim fourth Asian Cup title.

Crawley’s Torres ready to take on Man U

LONDON – Crawley FC hero Sergio Torres is reportedly looking forward to the away tie against Manchester United.

“I was so nervous I had to get out so I went for a walk with my girlfriend Lena. I wasn’t going to watch the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Crawley’s Torres ready to take on Man U.

Liverpool coach Dalglish wants Carroll as replacement for Torres

LONDON – Liverpool FC reportedly want England striker Andy Carroll to replace Spaniard Fernando Torres.enny Dalglish’s Reds are set to make a 30-million-pound bid for the Newcastle No.9 if Torres joins Chelsea today, The Sun reports.

Liverpool also plotting a 15-million-pound swoop …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Australia must go for pace rather than spin in World Cup: Border

SYDNEY – Former Australian cricket captain and now Fox Sports cricket expert Allan Border believes that the best chance for his country to nail the ICC cricket World Cup for the third consecutive time rests with the fast bowling trio of Brett Lee, Shaun Tait and Mitchell Johnson, … Read more »»».

Can unpredictable New Zealand spring a surprise? (World Cup Countdown)

NEW DELHI – New Zealand will be returning to the subcontinent for the World Cup starting Feb 19 with the bitter experiences of a 4-0 thrashing in Bangladesh and 5-0 whitewash in the ODI series in India last year.

Though New Zealand have ended their 11-match losing streak in style against Pakistan in the …. Source article  : Can unpredictable New Zealand spring a surprise? (World Cup Countdown).

I would like to do something special for World Cup: Gautam Gambhir (Interview) (World Cup Countdown)

(Attn Editors : Following is the first in a World Cup cricket countdown series by IANS that will have team previews, interviews of present and former India players, features and statistics)NEW DELHI – When Gautam Gambhir was dropped from the 2007 World Cup squad, he was so disappointed that he almost quit cricket. As he …. Source article  : I would like to do something special for World Cup: Gautam Gambhir (Interview) (World Cup Countdown).

Clarke showing glimpses of old self with steady Gabba knock: Roebuck

SYDNEY – Stand-in Australian captain Michael Clarke has realized that he has two roles to play, and cannot neglect one because the other is not working, cricket columnist Peter Roebuck has claimed.

According to Roebuck, leadership of the Australian squad sits quite easily on Clarke’s shoulders, and this came to the fore in the fifth one-day …. Read the original article  : Clarke showing glimpses of old self with steady Gabba knock: Roebuck.

Ashes mess: Cricket Australia facing pivotal board meeting

SYDNEY – Cricket Australia power brokers will decide on the mechanics of a far-reaching review into the national team’s abject failure in the recent Ashes series when they meet next Tuesday.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, an independent chairperson is being sought, perhaps from a corporate background, to assess the wider problems in the game’s … Read : Ashes mess: Cricket Australia facing pivotal board meeting.

Kiwi left-arm spinner Woodcock still waiting for international wicket

NAPIER – Wellington left-arm spinner Luke Woodcock is still looking for his first international wicket after making his debut for New Zealand over the weekend.

In the match against Pakistan in Christchurch, he had to bite his lip as wicketkeeper Brendon McCullum missed a clear stumping chance off his bowling.

The McCullum miss left him with bowling …. Source article  : Kiwi left-arm spinner Woodcock still waiting for international wicket.

Run fest expected in Napier ODI

NAPIER – New Zealand’s last visit to Napier resulted in a thrilling two-wicket victory over Australia in March, thanks to a blazing 49 not out by Scott Styris as the Black Caps chased 276.

It was New Zealand’s 20th win from 33 ODIs at McLean Park.

Against Pakistan in Napier, New Zealand have a 4-0 …. Original article  : Run fest expected in Napier ODI.

Black Caps boost batting line-up for Napier ODI

NAPIER – New Zealand will play with just two pace bowlers in tomorrow’s fourth one-day cricket international against Pakistan in Napier, preferring to boost their batting line-up.

A team spokesman confirmed Jacob Oram would be 12th man, joining the already omitted trio James Franklin, Kyle Mills and Luke Woodcock on the sidelines as the selectors’ rotation … Read more : Black Caps boost batting line-up for Napier ODI.

Shahzaib Hasan ‘disappointed’ over Pak World Cup snub

LAHORE – Pakistan batsman Shahzaib Hasan, who was a member of the 2009 Twenty20 World Cup winning squad, has said that he is disappointed and surprised at being left out of the national squad for the upcoming World Cup.

“I was really disappointed, shocked and surprised that I never even made it into the list of …. Source  : Shahzaib Hasan ‘disappointed’ over Pak World Cup snub.

Murray’s time ‘yet to come’: Tennis Scotland

EDINBURGH – Andy Murray’s time is “still to come” despite his defeat in the Australian Open final, Tennis Scotland has said.

The BBC quoted a spokesman, as saying that everyone was “extremely disappointed” at Murray’s failure to win a Grand Slam title on Sunday, but felt sure he would fight back.

Murray lost previous finals at the … Read more »».

PCB to videotape domestic matches to deal with players’ indiscipline

LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) plans to introduce a system of video recording its domestic matches to deal with the growing problem of players’ indiscipline and sub-standard umpiring.

PCB’s domestic cricket division head Sultan Rana said that the board plans to install two video cameras at every stadium where first-class and national one-day …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Booker T Returns To WWE

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com) After a span of three years, WWE superstar Booker T made a surprise comeback in Royal Rumble 2011. The former ‘King Of The Ring’ made an unexpected entry in Royal Rumble so as to give a shot to earn the main event spot at Wrestlemania 27. But to much disappointment …. Source  : Booker T Returns To WWE.

Shane Warne to reunite with Liz Hurley?

MELBOURNE – Rumours are abuzz that spin bowler Shane Warne is all set to reunite with his ladylove Liz Hurley.

Speculation is mounting that the pair could enjoy a romantic Melbourne rendezvous before jetting off together for a short holiday, reports News.com.au.

As Warne’s ex-wife, Simone Callaghan moves on with her life, the cricket legend and his …. Read the original article  : Shane Warne to reunite with Liz Hurley?.

Murray not to play tennis for two months after Oz Open loss

MELBOURNE – British tennis champion Andy Murray has said that he not play the sport for the next two months following his thrashing in the Australian Open final.

“I might not play for a few months. I might feel like playing in a week’s time, it depends. I’ll see how I feel,” The Sun quoted Murray, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Murray not to play tennis for two months after Oz Open loss.

Fabregas defuses potential ’sportsmanship’ row with Huddersfield

LONDON – Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas has played down claims of bad sportsmanship during the club’s match against Huddersfield after an edgy 2-1 FA Cup win at the Emirates.ccording to The Sun, some Terriers players accused Fabregas of refusing to swap shirts with them at the end of the match.

But Fabregas: “It was a … Original article on : Fabregas defuses potential ’sportsmanship’ row with Huddersfield.

Shane Warne’s ex finds love in the arms of model Toby Roberts

MELBOURNE – Shane Warne’s ex-wife Simone Callahan has found new love with a younger man, Melbourne model Toby Roberts.

According to this week’s issue of Woman’s Day magazine, Callahan is dating Roberts, son of St Kilda champion and 1958 Brownlow medallist Neil Roberts.

The couple stepped out last week for a romantic meal in St Kilda, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Shane Warne’s ex finds love in the arms of model Toby Roberts.

Akhtar must get ‘match-fit’ if he wants to play for Pak: Afridi

CHRISTCHURCH – Pakistan’s ODI captain Shahid Afridi has said that fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar was left out of the third ODI against New Zealand, as he needs to work harder on his fitness and form.

“Shoaib needs to be match fit and should train. Waqar Younis is spending lot of time and is working hard … Read more »».

Pietersen shocked, disappointed by hoax bid on Queensland flood fundraiser

BRISBANE – England middle-order batsman Kevin Pietersen has expressed both shock and disappointment over a cruel hoax that foiled his attempt to help flood victims in Queensland.

Pietersen had offered his Ashes kit plus airfares, accommodation and tickets to Sunday’s 50-over match against Australia in Perth in an online auction that was knocked down for 51,000 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pietersen shocked, disappointed by hoax bid on Queensland flood fundraiser.