Sunday, November 23, 2008
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Bernie's wife files for divorce
A spokeswoman for the 50-year-old said the announcement had been prompted by media speculation about the Ecclestones' personal life.
The former model, who will be represented by Liz Vernon, one of Britain's most highly-rated divorce lawyers, could be in line for a significant portion of her husband's fortune. Bernie is believed to be worth in excess of US$4billion.
Simon Bethel, a family law specialist, told the BBC: "Given Mr and Mrs Ecclestone were reputed to be worth US$4billion in the 2008 Rich List, this case may see the highest award to a wife in legal history."
Jani victorious at Sepang
Team Switzerland's Neel Jani became the fifth different race winner this season. After a red flag, Switzerland controlled the re-start and made a slick pit-stop to take a comfortable win in the hot and humid conditions. Frances Loc Duval finished second ahead of a charging Earl Bamber for A1 Team New Zealand.
As the cars came in formation towards the rolling start, an incident involving USA, Brazil and India brought out the red flag. The pack appeared to pick up pace as it approached the start line, but then backed off causing a concertina effect towards the back of the field.
The USA car of Marco Andretti and the Brazilian car of Felipe Guimares took it in turn to climb over the back of Narain Karhtikeyans Indian entry scattering debris across the pit straight.
Marco Andretti commented: "I'm disappointed. You can say its unavoidable but at the time I thought everyone was going and I could only see two rows ahead of me. I couldnt see ahead of the whole field.
"I was about to grab fourth gear, and as soon as the rear tyres were hooking up that was when I needed to be stopping the car so there was no hope. Once you are committed you are kind of stuck with it. In the States you either go or you dont. Here, they went, and then stopped. No one was to blame, it was just racing, but ultimately I crashed out two cars."
Australia's John Martin had lightening reactions to dive left and onto the grass to avoid the accident as the race was immediately red flagged.
After a 30-minute delay the cars lined up in single file to start behind the Safety Car, but Danny Watts was now in trouble having to crawl back to the pits as the Great Britain car was stuck in first gear.
With the race finally underway, Switzerland held the lead as the pack came round for a cautious single file race start. Further down the field, David Garza was under pressure losing out to The Netherlands Jeroen Bleekemolen, who grabbed seventh round the outside of the Mexican at Turn 9.
South Africa then made a move down the inside of the final hairpin to pass Mexico and as the pair both ran wide, home nation Malaysia was right in the thick of the action, as Fairuz Fauzy snatched eighth going through on the inside of both cars.
South Africa tried to fight back and as the pair went wheel-to-wheel they touched with Malaysia picking up a left rear puncture. Fauzy limped back to the pits much to the disappointment of the Malaysian crowd.
After 3 laps the order at the front settled with Switzerland having a 2.3-second lead from France, New Zealand, Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Netherlands and South Africa. With changes to the regulations this season, the cars headed towards their first ever mandatory Sprint race pit stop with France and New Zealand being the first to dive in.
France had a slower stop, and New Zealands Earl Bamber was released alongside France. With New Zealands nose being just ahead France was forced to ease off allowing Bamber to take the position as the pair exited the pit lane. However, the team made the call to give the position back to France to avoid any further penalty for what could be deemed to be an unsafe release.
A lap later Jani pitted and, after a slick stop by the Swiss crew, rejoined with a comfortable lead. A great stop from the Irish team also leap-frogged Adam Carroll ahead of Italy and into fifth. On lap 7 the order was Switzerland still up at the front from New Zealand, France, Portugal, Ireland, Netherlands, Italy and Australia.
Switzerland held on to win the Sepang Sprint race for the third year running to become the fifth different race winner in the five races so far this season.
"It was a great race, we had very good pace, a good re-start and pit stop so it was just a perfect race for me", said Jani.
"The big race is the Feature race though, and we are at the back of the grid so its a totally different task. Its about the average of the weekend and we need to get a good points average."
Frances Loc Duval said: "The pit stop was not that good and I ended up third. I thought New Zealand may have a drive-through or something like that as the car was released in front of me from the stop, but he let me go back past. The car was not that good so we have to improve a little bit for this afternoon but after that, we were ok and there was no problem at all."
"We got a really good pit stop, said Bamber who brought Black Beauty home in third. The team did a fantastic job and it was quite close between me and Loc where I just squeezed past, but the team radioed me to let France back past because of an unsafe release. I let him pass on the back straight and then I finished the race in third. It was a good result so we will see how I do from 15th this afternoon."
Despite what looked like an extremely bad crash at the start, USA, Brazil and India will all be ready to take the grid for this afternoons Feature race, where even more excitement can be expected.
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Team mates support Malik
Malik's style of captaincy had come in for severe criticism from several former players including Imran Khan, Ramiz Raja and even current coach Intikhab Alam.
In a more damning indictment, middle-order batsman Mohammad Yousuf said he had joined the unauthorised Indian Cricket League in part due to Malik's style of leadership.
But the Pakistan Cricket Board hinted that Malik would be retained as captain after the team's 3-0 series triumph over the West Indies in Abu Dhabi.
"Nothing has been decided about Malik's captaincy, but I think he is committed," said PCB chief executive officer Saleem Altaf.
"He is young and if he gets a chance he might prove himself a good captain."
Younis Khan, who struck a century in the final match against the West Indies, also backed Malik.
"He is learning with time and with every match," said Younis, who was among the contenders to take over if Malik was sacked.
"I suggest that people should leave him alone. He should be made captain for four to five years because he comes under pressure every time there is talk about changing the captain."
Former skipper Wasim Akram, a staunch critic of Malik earlier in his reign, seems to have changed his mind following the recent success.
"Until last year I believed Malik wasn't a good choice as captain, but he has proved me wrong by performing really well in most of the matches Pakistan have played this year," Akram said.
"I think he should be retained."
Inthikab sees a role for Shoaib
"He can play a very important role against India and we will be relying on him to deliver the goods with experience and pace. I don't think he is finished. If nursed properly and he takes care of himself, Shoaib can do more for Pakistan than he has done in recent times," Intikhab, who guided the team to a clean sweep in ODI series against West Indies in Abu Dhabi recently, said today.
"Shoaib is certainly not finished as an international player as yet and he still has a few years to give to Pakistan cricket," he added.
The former Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Lt Gen (retd) Tauqir Zia recently advised the PCB to tell the fast bowler to go home and retire as he was finished as an international cricketer.
Intikhab, a former international cricketer, said that Shoaib had been told to follow a rigorous rehabilitation and training programme under the supervision of the team's Australian trainer David Dwyer.
Shoaib regained his berth in the national team recently and went to Abu Dhabi with the squad but didn't play in the series due to a calf strain.
"He is working very hard and doing what he has been asked to do to lose weight, become fitter and sharper and get the match fitness. He was fit for the final match (in Abu Dhabi) but we decided to not risk him on the advice of the trainer," he said. Speaking on the coming home-series against India, the coach insisted, "The series is very much on and we have to start serious preparations for it. All the players have already been given individual programs to keep themselves fit for the series as it is big for us." Intikhab also lauded Mahendra Singh Dhoni's men for their stupendous performance in the recent series against Australia and the ongoing England series.
"India has done really well in recent months and against Australia they were the better side but I think one of the reasons for their success is also the cricket balls they use in domestic cricket and against touring sides.
"The Indian players are well versed with the SG cricket balls and know how to use them well. Compared to the Kookaburra, the SG has a more prominent seam that does not die down after a few overs and is a big help for the spinners and pacers alike. It allows them to take a strong grip and use it effectively," he said.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
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India ready to go for the kill
India need to win just one more match to wrap up the seven-match series, and Mahendra Singh Dhoni and his bravehearts will be no doubt be boosted by the return of an in-form Sachin Tendulkar, as they bid to continue their winning sequence in the floodlit encounter at the Chinaswamy stadium.
The visitors, on the other hand, have been left with the daunting task of winning four matches in a row to clinch the series and it appears extremely unlkely that they would be able to stop the Indian juggernaut.
The return of Tendulkar has no doubt made the Indian batting line-up more formidable but it will also force the hosts to tinker with the batting order.
Tendulkar had been rested for the first three matches of the series after playing in all the four Tests against Australia and it remains to be seen whether he will open the innings with Virender Sehwag.
It will be a tough decision for the Indian team management as making Tendulkar open the innings would mean tinkering with the highly successful opening pair of Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir.
In case Tendulkar opens, the left-handed Gambhir, who is in very good form, may come in to bat at the number three slot.
Bangalore Pitch set to be a beauty
India's batsmen have plundered runs galore in the first three one-dayers against England, and, with the action moving to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium Bangalore, MS Dhoni's men are being assured that they can expect to score highly again as they look to make it four wins out of four.
"It's a sporting wicket, and should assist the batsmen more than the bowlers,' Bangalore curator Narayan Raju has revealed.
"The ball will come on to the bat nicely although the first session might help the bowlers," he added.
Raju's revelations will not please the tourists who are desperate for a win after losing by 156 runs in Rajkot, 54 runs in Indore and 16 runs (D/L method) in Rajkot last Thursday.
The day-night match is expected to attract a sell-out crowd.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
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Clarke rides his luck
Clarke, dropped on 21, 90 and 94, rode his luck en route to 112, leaving Australia in position to clinch a draw which would give them a chance of saving the series.
Part-time off-spinner Virender Sehwag completed a five-wicket haul as Australia were eventually bowled out in the last session of the day for 577, only 36 shy of India's first-innings score of 613 for seven declared.
India then lost quick wickets at the start of their second innings and closed the day on 43 for two.
Clarke's hundred, his eighth in Test cricket, saved the day for Australia, but it had looked an unlikely feat at the start.
Clarke was handed a reprieve in just the fourth over of the day when Ishant Sharma put down a straight forward chance at long off.
The New South Wales batsman skipped down the track in an attempt to cart leg-spinner Amit Mishra over the in-field, but hit straight to Ishant, who grassed the regulation catch.
Sehwag had dismissed Shane Watson (36) quickly enough in the morning, but his attempts to add a fifth victim to his haul were twice stymied by poor fielding, Clarke being the beneficiary on both occasions.
Clarke attempted a slog-sweep off the spinner, but the delivery took the top edge and ballooned to VVS Laxman at long-off. Laxman, however, dropped what ought to have been a simple catch.
Four runs later, Clarke swept Sehwag again, this time straight to Mishra at deep square leg. Mishra advanced a touch, but failed to grasp cleanly.
Clarke then brought up his century by swatting a short ball from Sehwag through covers. Only six boundaries and one six studded his eighth Test century.
He finally holed out in the deep to Zaheer Khan, presenting Mishra his second wicket.
Clarke had constructed crucial partnerships worth 73 for the fifth wicket with Watson and 109 for the seventh with Cameron White (44).
Watson was the first to go in the morning, the all-rounder falling after putting on a show of belligerence.
He took 10 runs off three deliveries from an Ishant over and hit a total of eight boundaries, six of them coming through the third man region.
But his resistance ended when Sehwag got one to turn sharply from outside off stump beating Watson as he moved back to defend.
The ball spun enough to clip the top of leg stump.
Kumble, who missed most of the third day due to a finger injury sustained in the morning session, plunged into attack immediately upon returning to the field after 14 overs had been bowled.
He finally picked up his first wicket of the series, getting rid of Brad Haddin.
Haddin skipped down the track to hit Kumble over the top, was beaten by the flight and wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni had the bails whipped off in a flash.
White showed admirable diligence and patience as he kept out the Indian bowlers, before being bowled via an edge by Sehwag.
Kumble then mopped up the tail, trapping Brett Lee (eight) in front and shortly after running back to collect a catch from Mitchell Johnson (15) off his own bowling, ending Australia's innings.
India then saw opener Sehwag bowled by Lee for 16 and the decision to send in a nightwatchman backfired as Ishant capped a poor day by falling to Stuart Clark for one.
At close, Rahul Dravid, who was rapped on the forearm by a bouncer from Clark, was batting on five and with him was Gautam Gambhir on 21.
India lead the four-match series 1-0.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
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Wednesday, October 1, 2008
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Hamilton getting stronger
Hamilton heads into the final three grands prix in Japan, China and Brazil with a seven point cushion to Ferrari rival Felipe Massa.
The 23-year-old stretched his advantage following Massa's calamitous race in Singapore on Sunday when he suffered a pit-lane disaster.
A scheduled stop saw the Brazilian released early which resulted in him knocking over two of his mechanics before setting off down the pit lane with the fuel hose still attached to his car.
A drive-through penalty followed for an unsafe release from the pits, culminating in Massa finishing 13th after starting on pole.
Hamilton, meanwhile, drove a steady, faultless race to finish third behind race winner and former McLaren team-mate Fernando Alonso in his Renault.
Hamilton said his team has always been "rock-solid".
"We started the year feeling really strong and we have just kept developing that," he said.
"I'd say now the team is the most positive and together it's ever been.
"Since the middle of the season, we've got the car in such a sweet-spot that it's been competitive at every race.
"I think Singapore showed just what we could do. We didn't really put a foot wrong.
"I've got to give credit to the engineers and strategists for helping me to save fuel during the first safety car period.
"The guys in the garage pulled off two perfect pitstops. What more can I ask for?
"We're just getting stronger and stronger. We all want this so much that every race just pulls us closer and closer together.
"I can't really describe that feeling of team-work, but it's incredibly strong. It's what keeps us all going."
Hamilton now faces a leisurely time at home in Geneva this weekend, what he describes as "a normal regime", prior to a hectic finish of three races in four weeks.
The race in Singapore underlined Hamilton's commitment to focusing on taking advantage of a situation at any given time, rather than going for glory.
As Massa was not in a position to score points, Hamilton coasted to a comfortable third place instead of pushing Williams' Nico Rosberg for second and potentially crashing out.
Such a mature mindset will not change, with Hamilton adding: "The six points we got on Sunday were pretty important to our title chances.
"We're ahead now in both world championships and have to keep focused during these next three races.
"I've said before that consistency is what will win this world championship, and I feel really pleased that we did that in Singapore.
"We only finished third, but we couldn't really have asked for more from that result, and I didn't want to risk throwing those points away with any kind of move as you never know what might happen.
"We also made all the right decisions at the right moments in the race, and the car still feels fantastic to drive.
"All I can do is take one race at a time while keeping one eye on the final result at the end of the year."
Drivers geared up for Himalayan rally
The rally will run in three separate versions: Xtreme, Adventure Trial and Bikes Xtreme. These events will cover over 2400 kms spread over 8 legs in 8 days. The raiders will negotiate their way through the cavities and crevices of some of the most inhospitable terrains, like the Tanglang La (second highest motorable pass in the world), Jalori Pass and the Rohtang Pass. Kunzum La, Baralacha La and Panzi La are also part of this year's endurance test.
Tying up the loose-ends and loopholes for this edition of the Raid has been the most difficult for the organisers. The adverse weather condition in these areas for the past few weeks has been hindering the preparations. But, the man behind the Raid and president of the Himalayan Motorsports Association, Vijay Parmar, has left no stone unturned.
Six months of hard work and preparation has been marred by incessant snow and land slides over the area, but the spirit of motoring enthusiasts and Parmar's commitment as always, has made it possible this time around as well.
"At a time when people are trying to get out of the area, we are paying to get in", said Parmar to Mobile ESPN. With participants covering a distance of 300 kms a day on an average, and managing the serpentine high narrow mountain roads, the Raid is not for the faint hearted. However, Parmar & Co. have insured that safety remains the topmost concern.
Special training has been given to drivers so that that immediate first-aid can be given in case of an accident or crash. Helevac (Helicopter Evacuation) have also been stationed at various points of stages of each leg.
With temperatures plunging as low as minus-20 degrees Celsius, drivers have a piece of advice from Parmar, "It's not about speed, but endurance in the face of nature".
Changing gears to Formula One, Parmar is all for the Indian Grand Prix in 2011 and hails liquor baron and Force India co-owner Vijay Mallya's efforts of promoting the international sport in India.
" I think Vijay has done a great job. It doesn't matter whether the team wins or loses, just the fact that an Indian team is rubbing tyres at an international level, shows the potential of Mallya and his money."
Parmar adds: "The Indian Grand Prix is something that we are all looking forward to and it will definitely be a shot in the arm for the Indian tourism. I think it's something that should happen and I guess even if Mallya can't do it, his bucks can!"
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Tuesday, September 23, 2008
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Messi grabs hat trick
Craig Levein's men took the lead through Prince Buaben before Thierry Henry restored parity for the Catalan giants.
Messi then transformed the game when he was introduced as a second-half substitute and netted three goals, with out-of-favour Samuel Eto'o also adding his name to the scoresheet.
While Barcelona were ahead with just five minutes on the clock as they racked up a 6-0 win against Hibernian at Murrayfield earlier this week, it was United who carved out a couple of decent chances early on at Tannadice.
Warren Feeney - who joined on loan from Cardiff in June - was involved in most of their best moves and could have snatched the opener with just six minutes gone. Buaben's cross found Jon Daly who slipped the ball through to Feeney, but the offside flag was raised before he could unleash the shot.
The Northern Ireland international then saw a close-range header smothered on the line by goalkeeper Victor Valdes.
Henry should have opened the scoring when he collected a long ball from Martin Caceres in plenty of space out on the left and looked certain to leave the net bulging with only the keeper to beat but somehow managed to fire over the crossbar.
Instead, it was United who surged into the lead much to the delight of the home crowd after 25 minutes. Caceres should have cleared the danger but allowed Scott Robertson to pick out Feeney, whose cross from the left set up Buaben to direct a firm header past Valdes.
The celebrations were short-lived when Barca levelled within 60 seconds. Darren Dods failed to clear his lines and a Daniel Alves cross found Henry, who saw his first attempt blocked by Lukasz Zaluska before converting the rebound.
Henry then fluffed a shot in front of goal after being set up by Bojan Krkic, before Bojan himself was denied by an excellent save from Zaluska at the near post. An Eidur Gudjohnsen header off the upright proved to be the last real chance of the first half.
United had been spared the lethal skills of Messi - who did enough in 45 minutes to earn the man of the match award against Hibs - until the second half when he was thrown into the action as one of nine changes, with only Alves, Caceres and Victor Sanchez remaining from the original line-up.
The home side made just one replacement at the break, Zaluska withdrawn for reserve keeper Michael McGovern, and he was left plucking the ball out of the net nine minutes after the restart when Messi pounced on an Eto'o through-ball and sent an angled drive home.
Eto'o was then gifted a goal of his own after 61 minutes thanks to a blunder by substitute Andis Shala just moments after he was thrown into the action, his poor passback landing at the feet of the Cameroon striker and begging to be stroked into the back of the net.
The fourth goal arrived with 14 minutes to go with Eto'o and Messi exchanging a one-two before Messi produced an acrobatic finish from close range. He then completed his hat-trick two minutes later when the rebound from a blocked Eto'o effort landed at his feet and Lee Wilkie failed to clear the danger on the line.
Friday, July 25, 2008
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Ronaldinho dreams for gold
The two-time world player of the year won the World Cup in 2002 but insists standing on the podium at the Games would be an equally impressive achievement.
"There is no doubting it is a really important competition. Many of the most talented players in the world have been a part of it and most of them have never won it," said the 28-year-old.
"It will be a like a dream come true. It is a chance for this team to make history for Brazilian soccer."
For all Brazil's glory in World Cups, they have never done better than silver at an Olympic Games - in Los Angeles in 1984 in Seoul in 1988.
Ronaldinho, who has been training with the rest of the squad in Singapore this week, rates the team's chances of ending their Olympic jinx but is not writing off their opponents in China.
"I am very confident and willing to do my best to help the team win the gold medal," he continued.
"In every competition, we have to respect every team in the same way and play every match with the utmost concentration.
"The team has been talking and analysing the coach's plans in each session. We've also analysed the way our opponents play to find the most effective strategy."
The former Barcelona star would not be drawn on the club versus country issue which has denied Brazil of the services of Real Madrid winger Robinho.
"I prefer not to comment on this issue at this moment but it is a privilege to be here and to be part of a competition which is the dream of every player," he said.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
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Wednesday, July 23, 2008
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Tuesday, July 22, 2008
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Smith praises De Villers
South Africa have not won a test series in England since 1965 and since isolation they have taken the lead in the three series they have played in 1994, 1998 and 2003 only to fail to go on and triumph.
“We are going to enjoy this moment (first),” Smith told reporters. “Edgbaston is a little time away but it is something we have been aware of all the time. The important thing is that we are on the up.
“Edgbaston is a pressure cooker atmosphere for any away team, but in the meantime we will relax things a little and prepare and hopefully play as well at Edgbaston as we have here.”
Smith and his opposite number Michael Vaughan both acknowledged that England’s below-par total of 203 on the first day presented the tourists with an opportunity to take the lead in the four-match series.
The South Africa skipper paid tribute in particular to the way AB de Villiers played for his 174 – “it was a man’s innings” - after getting booed by the crowd for his part in a controversial catch incident.
While Smith said England “played frantically” to be bowled out in just 52.3 overs, Vaughan admitted his side batted "like millionaires” before South Africa showed a more sensible and circumspect approach.
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Portsmouth reject Kranjcar bid
The midfielder has show great form this season as Portsmouth fought their way to the FA Cup title and eighth place in the Premiership. On the international front Kranjcar starred for Croatia at Euro 2008, although they lost out to Turkey in the quarter-finals.
The 23-year-old has made many fans this season, with the Monaco management looking to be among the most interested in securing his services.
Arsenal and Roma are also said to be interested.
"Monaco have come in for Niko and offered around £12million for him. We wouldn't sell him and he didn't want to go anyway so that was the end of that one," said Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp.
"No disrespect, but why would he want to go there anyway? They get 6,000 people watching them.
"You go there on a weekend and it's a unique experience, people aren't interested in the football. They all go out on the Saturday night and get dressed up for dinner, not to watch football."
The Englishman also refuted reports that Juventus are interested in signing Sulley Muntari, saying that he is not for sale.
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Barrichelo relishing German return
Back in 2000 Barrichello finally broke his victory duck, taking the chequered flag in the German Grand Prix at a time when he was with Ferrari.
Now with Honda, the odds on a triumph at the track on this occasion are exceptionally long, in particular if it is hot and dry.
But the forecast is for an unsettled weekend, and after his recent wet-weather heroics at the British Grand Prix, he could yet pull another surprise.
"It was fantastic to wake up on Monday after Silverstone and see the trophy," exclaimed Barrichello, who finished in the top three for the first time in three years.
"To step onto the podium again was an unexpected but deserved outcome to our British Grand Prix weekend and I was so pleased to have achieved the result for the team.
"However, we have to keep our focus and continue to improve the performance of the car as we are fully aware that our result at Silverstone was assisted by the wet conditions.
"With changeable weather this weekend, it can make for an exciting race and overtaking is possible, particularly under heavy braking."
Reflecting on his memories of his debut success, he added:"My first victory in Formula One came at Hockenheim back in 2000, so this circuit is very special to me.
"The layout changes mean it is a different venue now from the track that I used to enjoy so much, however, it's still a good circuit."
Honda boss Ross Brawn has conceded Barrichello's performance, and the team's first podium this season was "a big morale boost."
But he maintains realism has not been lost as he said: "Silverstone gave us the opportunity to combine driver experience and team performance to achieve a very well deserved podium finish.
"The team worked extremely well throughout the race to take advantage of the opportunities which opened up, aided by an excellent drive and outstanding tyre feedback from Rubens.
"Our first podium of the season was, of course, a big morale boost, however, it would be unrealistic to expect a repeat of this result in dry track conditions.
"But with changeable weather predicted for the weekend, as Rubens has mentioned, it could be an interesting race.
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Simon sees of Becker
World number 25 Simon has now advanced to the quarter-finals or better at five tournaments this season while also winning in Casablanca in May.
The 23-year-old will next play fifth seeded German Tommy Haas, who beat American John Isner 6-3 6-4.
Haas broke Isner once in each set, and saved all three break point chances faced to seal the win in one hour and 15 minutes to claim his first career win in three attempts.
"I'm really happy about getting that match," said Haas. "It's always very important to have at least one victory against everyone that plays out there, so I'm really pleased with that one."
Former world number two Haas is playing in just his tenth ATP-level tournament since undergoing shoulder surgery last November.
Chile's Paul Capdeville advanced to his first ATP quarter-final of the season after defeating Australian qualifier Joseph Sirianni 6-3 6-4.
The 25-year-old won 78% of his service points during 75 minute contest to post consecutive ATP match wins for the first time since reaching the Washington quarter-finals last summer.
Capdeville, who beat seventh seed and 2005 Indianapolis champion Robby Ginepri in the opening round, will face defending champion Dmitry Tursunov in the next round after the third seeded Russian advanced after American Wayne Odesnik withdrew prior to their match with a back injury.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Orovo and its uses
Shoaib Akthar in squad
Fast bowler Shoaib was initially banned by five years by the Pakistan Cricket Board for a series of discipline breaches but on appeal that ban was reduced to 18 months. Shoaib is currently fighting that in the Pakistani courts.
While the fight goes on he is free to play and despite the fact his career looked over in April, he now faces the prospect of playing a major ICC tournament in his home country in September.
Kaneria, meantime, is one of the most in-form bowlers on the English county circuit currently and actually topped the wicket-taking list after the group stage of the Twetnty20 Cup to prove that he is not just a Test bowler but also a leg-spinner who keeps runs down and takes wickets in the shorter form of the game too.
The final 15 players for the Champions Trophy will be nominated from the above list of 30 and the deadline for naming the 15 players is August 11, the PCB said.
Doping Test on all 30 players shall be conducted on July 19 and 20 in Lahore. Any player failing the test or failing to give samples for the test shall become ineligible for selection for the Champions Trophy and will also face disciplinary proceedings under PCB’s Anti Doping Policy, it said.
The PCB will monitor fitness of players and may conduct fitness tests prior to selection of final 15 for Champions Trophy 2008.
Soccer goals
Garcia to redeem himself
He only needed to par the 18th for victory, but failed to get up and down from a greenside bunker, giving him a final-round score of 73.
That capitulation further enhanced Garcia's growing reputation as the best player never to win a major - he has 13 top-10 finishes in majors but has never triumphed.
The Spaniard though feels this could be his year.
"My preparations have been going very well and I'm feeling good," Garcia told PA Sport.
"It's going to be tough because it's a difficult course and it's extremely windy but I'm hopeful. I'm in good shape and I think I can win."
Asked if he believes he can banish the memories of last year's failure and clinch the Claret Jug this time around, Garcia replied: "Sure, I think I can go one better this time."
The 28-year-old proved he has bounced back from the heartache 12 months ago by winning the Players Championship - the unofficial fifth major - in May, beating American Paul Goydos in another play-off.
And victory at Birkdale could complete a stunning summer for Spain.
With Rafael Nadal conquering Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final and Spain finally banishing their underachievers tag to win Euro 2008, Garcia could complete an impressive treble.
"I have been watching my fellow Spaniards this year and we have done so well," added Garcia, who is a close friend of Nadal and was at SW19 to watch his progress.
"If I could win too, that would be great for me and my country."
Baseball gloves
Stadium steals hall of famers
Current Yankees stars Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera received thunderous ovations, and receptions almost as warm greeted Hall of Famers Yogi Berra, Whitey Ford, Reggie Jackson and Rich "Goose" Gossage.
"No question (the ceremony) was above and beyond," Jeter said. "The ceremonies were great."
The 40-minute ceremony concluded with a rare appearance from Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, who rode in on a golf cart from the outfield and was greeted at the pitcher's mound by the four Yankee Hall of Famers, who jointly threw out the ceremonial first pitch.
"New York does it the best," Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez said.
Yankee Stadium, which originally opened in 1923, will close after this season. Major League Baseball chose the ballpark for this year's All-Star Game, making it the first stadium to host the Midsummer Classic in its final season.
Over the public address system, Fox broadcaster Joe Buck called it the "greatest collection of baseball's All-Stars ever assembled on one field."
Following the introductions of the reserves, the Hall of Famers made a grand entrance through the left-centre field gate and took their place behind their respective positions on the field. When the starters for the contest were introduced, they took their place alongside the Hall of Famers.
"You want to talk to all of them at the same time, you're pretty giddy," Rodriguez said of his jog out to third base. "That's as good as it gets. Twenty or 30 years from now I'll look back and say, 'Wow.'"
The pitchers in attendance were Steve Carlton, Dennis Eckersley, Bob Feller, Rollie Fingers, Bob Gibson, Ferguson Jenkins, Juan Marichal, Phil Niekro, Jim Palmer, Gaylord Perry, Robin Roberts, Bruce Sutter, Don Sutton, Gossage and Ford.
The Hall of Famers at first base were Orlando Cepeda, Harmon Killebrew, Eddie Murray, Tony Perez and Willie McCovey, while the second basemen were Rod Carew, Bill Mazeroski and Ryne Sandberg.
Stylish frames from Zenni
Warm welcome for Gilberto
The 31-year-old Arsenal midfielder is set to be unveiled by Panathinaikos on Thursday once he passes a medical and signs a three-year contract in a move which will cost the Athens club a reported total of US$15.8million.
PAO president Nikos Pateras met with Gilberto's representatives last week and thrashed out a deal after offering Arsenal accepted an offer of US$1million.
Gilberto, whose flight arrived half an hour late at 18.20 local time, was overwhelmed by the reception and was whisked away by Pana officials without making any statements to the local media.
Barring any last-minute changes, the World Cup winner will ink a deal that will see him earn US$11.9million over the next three years, making him by far the best paid player in the country.
Despite being made vice captain of Arsenal in 2006, Gilberto found himself on the fringes of the first team last season due to the presence of Cesc Fabregas and the emergence of Matthieu Flamini, who has since left the club and been replaced by France midfielder Samir Nasri.
After beginning his career in 1997 with America Mineiro, Gilberto moved to Atletico Mineiro three years later. He earned a starting berth in the Brazil team that won the 2002 World Cup.
His displays in Japan and Korea were rewarded by a move to Arsenal that summer and he went on to win one Premier League title and two FA Cups with Arsene Wenger's men.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Art moving
Big bid for Berbatov
The Bulgarian has long been on United's radar after his stunning first season with Spurs two seasons ago. United were reportedly close to clinching Berbatov's signature last summer, before Spurs nipped in to secure his long term future at White Hart Lane.
However, there seems to be no such reprieve for the North London side this time around, with Berba's agent confirming that his client had received a formal offer from Sir Alex Ferguson's United and has expressed a wish to leave Spurs.
Despite stating publicly that Berbatov is not for sale, Spurs chief Juande Ramos has privately conceded defeat in his bid to keep the Bulgarian for next season, with Tottenham already swooping in for Espanyol forward Luis Garcia and eyeing Euro 2008 star Andrei Arshavin as another potential replacement.
According to the English broadsheet The Daily Telegraph, a fee of US$56 million, subject to performance-related add-ons, has been agreed by both parties.
Although still a hefty price tag, the fee is actually US$4 million lower than the original bounty placed on the player. Despite this decrease, the proposed fee is still considered as a coup for Tottenham, with the club having previously rejected United's first offer of US$40 million.
The paper now speculates that Berbatov's impending move to Manchester will create a chain reaction in the transfer market for a number of Premiership clubs.
Spurs are now ready to make use of the Berbatov windfall by launching a US$34 million bid for Blackburn's dazzling right winger David Bentley.
The Daily Telegraph also claims that Ramos will use his current keeper, Paul Robinson, as bait for Bentley, a move which would also mark the end of Brad Friedel's Ewood Park career, with Aston Villa looking likely to lauch a US$5 million bid for the American.
New Blackburn boss Paul Ince, who is facing a nightmare transfer exodus, admitted on Monday that Aston Villa have also entered the fray for Bentley by submitting their own bid. The former MK Dons boss has identified Liverpool's Jermaine Pennant as a possible replacement for Bentley.
He did, however, squash rumours the that 37-year old Friedel was bound for the exit door, stating that he wants to "keep his best players".
Art moving and its uses
Ranieri happy with the summer signings
The Denmark midfielder became the Bianconeri's eighth summer signing when he penned a four-year contract on Monday.
Ranieri had hoped to lure Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso to Turin but negotiations between the clubs did not prove fruitful.
The Juve tactician is nevertheless pleased with his close-season acquisitions.
"We are only missing a goalkeeper," said Ranieri.
"I am delighted with the result of the transfer market and I thank the club for giving me a good team."
The Bianconeri, who finished third in Serie A last season, have strengthened their squad with the signings of Brazilian forward Amauri from Palermo and defender Olof Mellberg from Aston Villa.
Juve can now focus on the Champions League preliminary round.
"I have asked two players per position and I have received what I wanted, now we must work and push hard," said Ranieri.
"With the new acquisition (Poulsen), we will have quality in midfield.
"Whoever is not convinced at Poulsen's characteristics, they will have to believe it."
Ron must respect Real
Last week, FIFA president Blatter voiced his controversial comments on 'modern slavery' in football.
Speaking of United winger Ronaldo's future, amid public interest from Real Madrid, Blatter said that no player should be held against his will.
Real defender Cannavaro, though, feels players should honour their deals - with Ronaldo's current contract due to expire in 2012.
"Slavery is a big word," the Italian centre-back told La Gazzetta dello Sport. "Someone who signs a contract must respect it."
On Sunday, it was announced that Ronaldo is facing at least three months on the sidelines following ankle surgery.
The 23-year-old's future at Old Trafford still remains uncertain, with the Portugal international yet to confirm where he intends to play his football next season.
Orovo Pills
Hamilton vows to bring it home
The McLaren driver was part of the F1 contingent attending this past weekend's Goodwood Festival of Speed, where he put on a demonstration run in last year's McLaren MP4-22 for the thousands of fans attending the annual event.
And the show also gave Hamilton the chance to address his fans, who gathered below the balcony.
In a scene out of an Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Evita", Hamilton stood on the balcony and promised to do his best to become the first Brit since Damon Hill in 1996 to win the World title.
"I'm not going to build up your hopes but just to let you know that I'm working as hard as I can to bring the Championship home for all of us - keep your fingers crossed," he said.
Speaking to host Chris Evans, the radio DJ and self-confessed petrol-head, on the balcony of Goodwood House while his fans gather below, Hamilton also confessed that pre-race nerves are still a big challenge for him.
"I've been racing since I was eight years old and every Sunday before the race I always have the same nerves and I can never control it," he said.
"I always try to come up with a formula or a way to deal with all the nerves and the race to make sure I win and it's always difficult.
"There is always something different happening; it could be raining or dry, you are always starting from a different position and there is always a different crowd and a different vibe.
"So it's all about trying to take it all in and do the best job I can."
Monday, July 14, 2008
Pellegrini looks to the future
Villarreal have enjoyed a remarkable rise to prominence in recent years, finishing in the top five of La Liga three times in the last four seasons and also reaching the last four of the Champions League.
But Pellegrini said: "The objectives always renew themselves and there is no point looking back. We need to start from zero and get back to finding our top form."
He added: "We have finished third in the league with 65 points, then reached the semi-finals of the Champions League and then finished runners-up with 77 points," said Pellegrini.
"We are going to try and get to the top in all the competitions, but also bearing in mind there are some very strong teams.
Art moving
Marketing company
Luis Fabiano close to a new contract
Luis Fabiano's future at Sevilla has been the source of much speculation since Christmas, and reports in Spain over the weekend suggested Madrid were poised to step up their supposed interest in the hitman.
"I know nothing of this (Madrid reports). I have just arrived and it is true that the contract renewal with Sevilla is very advanced," said the striker on his club's website.
"The only thing lacking is agreeing the (buy-out) clause and that's it. I am not going to talk of Madrid and things that I don't know.
"I have spoken with president (Jose Maria) Del Nido during the holidays and everything is almost all done. I am not going with (Daniel) Alves, (Seydou) Keita and (Christian) Poulsen."
Branding and its uses
Hull hopes to buy Boateng
The 32-year-old was due to undergo a medical on Monday after the two clubs agreed a fee thought to be around £1million.
The Holland international will become Hull's fourth summer signing after completing deals for Craig Fagan, Geovanni and Bernard Mendy ahead of their first Barclays Premier League season.
Brown said: ``George is currently in Sheffield doing a medical and, fingers crossed, in the next 24 hours hopefully we will have another international-quality player.''
Boateng will bring considerable top-flight experience to the promoted Tigers having spent 11 years in the Premier League with Coventry, Aston Villa and, since 2002, Boro.
He leaves the Riverside Stadium in search of more first-team opportunities and, although Brown cannot promise a regular starting slot, the manager sees him as a very welcome addition to his squad.
Brown said: ``No-one guarantees you first-team football. The only thing that can guarantee you that is playing well week in, week out - and that is what I fully expect from George, but he has to get past the players who are already in the team.''
Brown has been highly active in the transfer market in recent weeks and is still hoping to bring in several new faces before the club's opening fixture against Fulham on August 16.
Meanwhile, goals from Dean Marney, Will Atkinson, Michael Turner and Nick Barmby helped Hull complete a routine 4-0 win over local amateurs North Ferriby.
Branding agency
Guardiola happy with his squad
Barca have already allowed Giovani dos Santos and Santi Ezquerro to leave the club while on Monday fellow forwards Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto'o both looked to have moved a step closer to the Nou Camp exit door.
Those departures could leave Barca with a dearth of attacking options next season, especially if nothing comes of their reported interest in players such as Emmanuel Adebayor, David Villa, David Trezeguet, Karim Benzema and Dimitar Berbatov.
However, new coach Guardiola is not letting all that worry him, insisting he has total faith in the players already at his disposal.
"It's not a problem. I know that sometimes these things take time, but if we don't sign a number nine it will not be a concern," he said.
"With the team that I have now we can go far and compete with everybody. I've got the squad I need," added Guardiola, who still has Thierry Henry, Bojan Krkic and Eidur Gudjohnsen to lead the attack.
"I'm expecting a lot of Henry," the former Barca captain continued.
"I've spoken to him and I know that his first year wasn't easy, but I think he brings an awful lot to the team and I want to make the most of both him and Bojan."
Guardiola, who replaced Frank Rijkaard in the Nou Camp hotseat at the end of last season, also reiterated that the way was clear for big-name duo Eto'o and Ronaldinho to leave the club.
"They are not in our plans for the season, but if in the end they remain, they will be welcome and we will do what is necessary to get them to a great level," said Guardiola.
The chances of either Eto'o or Ronaldinho starting next term with Barca were looking slim on Monday night.
With regards to Ronaldinho, Barca president Joan Laporta confirmed they had received two "interesting" offers for the Brazil playmaker, one from Manchester City and the other believed to be from AC Milan.
And there are claims from Uzbekistan League side Kuruvchi that Cameroon international Eto'o has agreed a deal to join them and will be unveiled later this week.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
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