World Best Sports Players

Pakistan series not confirmed: Sri Lanka Cricket

2011-07-25T01:02:00.000-07:00

Sri Lanka had been willing to tour Pakistan but the deteriorating security situation in the country led to a change in plans. -Photo by AFP

KARACHI: It has emerged that Sri Lanka have not agreed to play an upcoming series against Pakistan in the UAE despite several media reports confirming the series venue as Abu Dhabi & Dubai.

“We haven’t been informed of venues for the series yet. In fact the other day, I read on BBC website that series was confirmed to be played at Abu Dhabi. I learnt about it only then. We are going to discuss this matter at our Interim Committee meeting and then only we can communicate with PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) and finalise the venues,” Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) interim committee chairman Upali Dharmadasa was quoted as saying by the Daily Mirror on Saturda.

He added that SLC will try to convince the PCB again to host the series in Sri Lanka as it will also give the Sri Lankan fans the chance to watch the matches.

The PCB had previously refused to play the series in Sri Lanka and preferred the UAE because it offered better profits.

Sri Lanka had been willing to tour Pakistan but the deteriorating security situation in the country led to a change in plans.

This week, media reports quoting CEO of Emirates Cricket Board Dilawar Mani confirmed UAE as hosts for series which will be played in October.

“The tour has been confirmed. We have to sit with PCB officials in the next few days to finalize venues,” Mani had said.

The series will comprise three Tests, five one-day internationals and a Twenty20 International.

Sharma demolishes England middle-order at Lord’s

2011-07-25T00:57:00.000-07:00

LONDON: India opening bowler Ishant Sharma turned the first test against England on its head on Sunday with three wickets in the space of 16 balls on the fourth morning at Lord’s.

Bounding in from the Nursery end, Sharma accounted for Kevin Pietersen (1), Ian Bell (0) and Jonathan Trott (22).

Altogether four wickets fell in 32 balls for eight runs and at lunch England were 72 for five in their second innings, an overall lead of 260, with five sessions remaining.

Pietersen, England’s first innings hero with an unbeaten 202, edged a steepling delivery to Mahendra Singh Dhoni behind the stumps. The same combination accounted for Bell in the same over, nibbling fatally outside the off stump.

Openers Andrew Strauss (32) and Alastair Cook (1) also succumbed in the morning session after England had started the day well placed on five for no wicket after dismissing India for 286 on Saturday evening in reply to their 474 for eight declared.

Strauss, who has had a lean test run in the English summer so far, looked in good order, taking 10 runs off a Praveen Kumar over including consecutive leg-side boundaries.

But he lost Cook with the total on 23, caught by Dhoni off Kumar from a delivery moving just enough to catch the edge of the left-hander’s bat. It was only the second ball Cook had faced from Kumar and his first on Sunday in 43 minutes at the crease.

Trott hooked Sharma to the boundary and Strauss slashed Kumar for another four but there was still plenty in the pitch to interest the bowlers and both batsmen were forced on occasion to hurriedly adjust their shots.

Strauss, who had scored only 49 runs in his previous five test innings in the English summer, was dismissed lbw by off-spinner Harbhajan Singh trying to sweep a ball which would have hit middle stump.

Pietersen and Bell departed in a double wicket maiden from Sharma who then knocked Trott’s off stump back as the batsman went to drive.

Eoin Morgan, who failed to score in the first innings, and wicketkeeper Matt Prior were both on five at the interval.

Zaheer Khan, who left the field in England’s first innings with a hamstring strain, was still missing on Sunday morning while Sachin Tendulkar was also absent with a virus infection.

Scoreboard:

England first innings 474-8 declared (K. Pietersen 202 not out, M. Prior 71, J. Trott 70; Praveen Kumar 5-106)

India first innings 286 (R. Dravid 103 not out)

England second innings (overnight 5-0)

A. Strauss lbw b Harbhajan Singh 32A. Cook c Dhoni b Kumar 1J. Trott b Sharma 22K. Pietersen c Dhoni b Sharma 1I. Bell c Dhoni b Sharma 0E. Morgan not out 5

M. Prior not out 5

Extras (b-3, lb-1, w-2) 6

Total (five wickets; 31 overs) 72

Fall of wickets: 1-23 2-54 3-55 4-55 5-62

Still to bat: G. Swann, S. Broad, J. Anderson, C. Tremlett

Bowling (to date): Praveen Kumar 12-1-39-1 (1w), Ishant Sharma 13-6-15-3 (1w), Harbhajan Singh 6-0-14-1

Amir Khan knocks out Zab Judah

2011-07-25T00:51:00.000-07:00

Amir Khan knocks out Judah to win IBF crown

2011-07-25T00:35:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS: Britain’s Amir Khan knocked out Zab Judah in the fifth round to add the IBF junior welterweight title to his WBA super lightweight crown in Las Vegas on Saturday night.

The end came with a bodyshot that crumpled Judah (41-7, 28 KOs) to his knees. The experienced American complained afterwards that the punch was low but replays showed it was on the belt line and legal.

“I knew he was getting hurt because he kept moving away and ducking,” said Khan (26-1, 18 KOs). “I kept hitting him in the face but the punch that dropped him was clean and on the belt.”

Khan, 24, was dominant from the first bell, punishing Judah with stiff left jabs and solid straight right hands.

Judah showed effective head movement for the first few rounds, meaning few of Khan’s punches landed cleanly, but the 33-year-old threw very few punches in return, even as Khan pursued him relentlessly.

Khan landed with just 61 of the 284 punches he threw during the fight but Judah threw only 115 punches in return, landing a mere 20, as Khan pursued him relentlessly.

Even with Judah’s evasive techniques, Khan scored with several solid flurries, backing Judah to the ropes and landing right hands that had the largely British crowd roaring with approval.

By the fifth, Judah was no longer able to escape the full force of Khan’s blows. Khan had by now found his range and was landing with increasing ease.

“If it had gone a few more rounds, I would have knocked him out with a clean shot,” said Khan. “It was just a matter of time. I think I overwhelmed him with my speed and power.

I could have gone in with a plan to knock him out sooner, but I wanted to take my time.”

Khan had won all four completed rounds on every judge’s scorecard at the time of the stoppage but Judah insisted that the coup de grace had been a foul blow.

“It was a low blow,” he said. “I was trying to get myself together. When the referee started counting, I thought he was giving me a standing eight count. I thought I would have the chance to get up. I didn’t understand.”

Dhoni’s World Cup final bat fetches $160,500

2011-07-20T08:42:00.000-07:00

NEW DELHI: The cricket bat used by India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni to hit a match-winning six in the World Cup final has fetched a staggering 100,000 pounds ($160,500) at an auction, media reported Tuesday.

The auction was held in London on Monday to raise funds for his charitable foundation that was launched in India last year, the Press Trust of India news agency said.

The Indian captain, who scored an unbeaten 79-ball 91 with the bat in his team’s six-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the final in Mumbai in April, sealed the match when he smashed seamer Nuwan Kulasekara for six.

Dhoni said that the charity will work on “improving children’s accessibility to cricket by building a sports academy where children will be able to develop their talents across a whole range of disciplines.”

He is currently leading the side in England for a four-Test series starting at Lord’s on Thursday.

Top guns cruise into Aisam-ul-Haq Masters semi-finals

2011-07-20T08:31:00.000-07:00

ISLAMABAD: All top-seeded players — Aqeel Khan, Jalil Khan, Yasir Khan and Mohammad Abid Mushtaq — qualified for the semi-finals after winning their respective matches in the inaugural Aisam-ul-Haq Masters Tennis Championship here at the PTF Tennis Complex on Tuesday.

Top seed Aqeel, who looked in excellent touch playing some impressive forehand and backhand shots, outplayed Mohammad Waqas Malik 6-2, 6-0.

In another fixture, second seed Jalil lost the first set 6-3 against Mohammad Abid mainly due to the former’s unforced errors.

Jalil, however, changed his strategy in the second set playing some tactical shots to win the remaining two sets and the match 3-6, 6-0, 6-0 in a cracking fashion.

Fourth seed Mohammad Abid Mushtaq easily won his encounter against Usman Rafiq 6-3, 6-0.

Meanwhile, in the boys’ under-18 event Hasnain Manzoor caused a major upset as he overwhelmed fourth seed Kashan-ul-Haq in a thrilling two-set match 6-4, 7-6(9). The second set decided in tiebreak which was won by Hasnain 11-9.

In the boys’ under-14 event Mohammad Mudassir, Zaid Mujahid, Hasnain Manzoor and Mohammad Muzammil reached the semi-finals.

Meanwhile, in the girls’ event top seed Saba Aziz proved too good for Javeria as the former outclassed the latter 6-0, 6-0.

In other girls’ quarter-finals, Rukhsana Fazal defeated Shagufta Mahboob 6-1, 6-0, Sara Mansoor overcame M. Darakhshan 6-2, 6-2 while Kunsha Babar got a walkover against Rubab Rahim.

Results:

Men’s singles:Quarter-finals: Aqeel Khan bt Waqas Malik 6-2, 6-0; Yasir Khan bt Shahzad PAF 6-7(3), 6-4, 6-3; Mohammad Abid bt Usman Rafiq 6-3, 6-0; Jalil Khan bt Mohammad Abid Ali 3-6, 6-0, 6-0.

Girls’ singles:

Quarter-finals: Saba Aziz bt Javeria 6-0, 6-0; Rukhsana Fazal bt Shagufta Mahboob 6-1, 6-0; Sara Mansoor bt M. Darakhshan 6-2, 6-2; Kunsha bt Rubab Rahim – walkover.

Boys’ U-18 singles:

Quarter-finals:Mohammad Abid bt Fahad Mahmood 6-0, 6-1; Ahmed Chaudhry bt Syed Zohair Raza 6-2, 6-3; Hasnain Manzoor bt Kashan-ul-Haq 6-4, 7-6(9); Usman Rafiq bt Mohammad Mudassir 6-0, 6-2.

Boys’ U-14 singles:

Quarter-finals: Mohammad Mudasir bt Jibranullah Khan 6-2, 6-4; Zaid Mujahid bt Hashim Khan 6-2, 6-1; Mohammad Muzammil bt Talha Bin Asif 4-6, 6-0, 6-4; Hasnain Manzoor bt Talha Sohail 6-0, 6-2.

Pakistan likely to rope in Serbian coach for volleyball team

2011-07-20T08:25:00.000-07:00

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) is all set to rope in a Serbian coach for the national volleyball team by the end of the month, Secretary PVF Muhammad Afzal said on Tuesday.

Talking to APP, Afzal said that the federation was on the hunt for a foreign coach for the past several months and besides holding talks with Serbian coaches it had considered China and Iran for the purpose.

“However, we have finally decided to hire the services of a Serbian coach as they (Serbians) have very high repute as volleyball trainers,” he said.

Pakistan are scheduled to take part in the 13th Al-Rashid International Volleyball tournament in Dubai slated from September 10-15. They will also be taking part in the 16th Asian Seniors Men’s Volleyball Championship to be held in Tehran from September 25 to October 3. The top two teams of the Iran event will make it to the World Championship.

“As these two events are very crucial for us we wanted to hire a quality coach well ahead of them,” Afzal said.

According to the secretary, the PVF was awaiting CVs of top Serbian coaches and expressed the optimism that it would be getting those within a week.

“As soon as we get CVs from them we will make no delay in hiring the services of the one who will be more suitable for us.”

He said that Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) had agreed to provide a monthly package of $4,000 besides other facilities to the coach.

Pakistan hired Augusto Sabbatini, a Brazilian coach, in November 2009 but relieved him soon after the Asian Games in China last year as he failed to put the team on the winning track.

U.S. lose World Cup final in dramatic penalty shoot-out

2011-07-17T21:22:00.000-07:00

The U.S. women's football team have failed to lift the Women's World Cup after they were beaten in a penalty shoot-out 3-1 by Japan after a 2-2 draw in the final today.Abby Wambach scored the second goal in the first half of extra-time, heading in a fine cross from Alex Morgan - who put the ball in the net herself in the 69th minute to give the U.S. the lead.But Japan hit back with a strike from Aya Miyama with nine minutes to go to force the game into extra time, and then equalised when Homare Sawa's dramatic late goal sent the game to penalties.

Shannon Boxx, Carli Lloyd and Tobin Heath all failed to convert for the Americans, who squandered dozens of chances throughout the game and blew a lead just six minutes from winning their third World Cup title.'This is obviously going to hurt for a while,' said Abby Wambach, whose only hole in her glittering career is the World Cup title.

Japan had not beaten the Americans in their first 25 meetings, including a pair of 2-0 losses in warm-up games a month before the World Cup.After being presented with the gold trophy, Japan's players jumped up and down on the podium, then gathered behind a sign reading 'Champions. World Champions'.The victory brings an emotio

It's been 12 years since the United States has won the World Cup, and this team was certain they were the ones to break the drought.The road to the final in Frankfurt, Germany, for the U.S. soccer team was bumpy, with them having to win a play-off eight months ago just to get to the tournament.Today the U.S. - ranked first in the world and the defending Olympic champions - wanted the ultimate finish to their improbable journey by delighting a country of new-found fans.

But it’s been a tough trek to Germany, after they had to beat Italy in a two-game playoff for the very last spot in the World Cup – and were stunned in regional qualifying last year by Mexico.

They opened the year with a loss to Sweden, fell to England for the first time in 22 years and lost to Sweden again in the tournament group stages - their first loss ever in World Cup group play.

‘In the past, we'd always won everything,’ U.S. captain and defender Christie Rampone, of Boca Raton magicJack, said. ‘Those losses made our team what it is today. ‘We need each other and you feel that, from the locker room to the time we step on the field.’

British skydivers got free fall world record-Spirit of Swat Festival 2011

2011-07-17T11:15:00.000-07:00

Mingora SWAT (July 16, 2011) – Spirit of Swat festival, which is currently taking place under the aegis of the Pakistan Army presented a colourful and energetic event on Saturday, which included several thrilling activities.

The event, which is the first of its kind in Swat, was witnessed by thousands of people in which hundreds of local and international players displayed their talent. Several activities such as paragliding, hang gliding, skydiving, marathon races and white river rafting were organised at the event.

During the event, a UK-based skydiver Andrew, along with two other skydivers set a world record by jumping from a height of 3,660 metres with the “largest” Pakistani flag.

“It gives me great pleasure to be here. I feel honoured to fly the biggest flag over Swat Valley, which is indeed a very memorable occasion and I am extremely thankful to the authorities for all their cooperation,” said Andrew while talking to media persons.

The event was organised with the assistance of Hawk Gliding Club. The club’s owner, Major (retd) Hamid Raza, said that the event was organised to streamline tourism in Swat and it has been a great success so far.“The festival aims to provide the younger generation of Swat with multiple opportunities. We want to involve them in healthy and positive activities to regain peace in the region,” he claimed.Captain Jamshed, the instructor of Peshawar Parachute Training Centre said, “The free fall jump was conducted 3,660 metres above sea level from a MI 17 plane, and the adventure athletes displayed various stunts during their free fall, after which their parachute opened at a height of approximately 1,220 metres.“This is the first time ever that we are having such a high profile skydiving competition. Swat is a suitable place for this activity and we have received a great response from the local people,” Syed Ajmal Hussain, the chief instructor of skydiving.The sports director of the military forces, Brigadier Iqtidar, who was also chief guest at the event, also appreciated the efforts of the participants.Speaking on the occasion, he said Pakistan possessed a lot of potential in such activities which should be utilised effectively to engage people in healthy activities. He said such events would take place in the future as well.The Spirit of Swat has been organised as part of the government’s bid to woo tourists back to the picturesque Swat valley. The 45-day event has been organised by the provincial government and the United Nations Development Programme with the assistance of the Pakistan Army.

Aisam ul haq with Faha on Mangni- Lahore

2011-07-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

Pakistan tennis player Aisamul-Haq Qureshi has got engaged with a Britain-based Pakistani girl, Faha MakhduM.While speaking to Geo News Faha Makhdum said she was very happy about getting engagaed to Aisam and was waiting for the wedding in December.

Aisam, who made headlines in the country when he reached the US Open doubles final last year with Indian partner Rohan Bopanna, will get engaged to Faha Makhdum.
Makhdum lives in Ipswich. She has done her BSc Hons in Psychology from the University of Essex and her MSc in Therapeutic Counselling (BACP accredited). She has worked for the Pakistani High Commission in England and also practiced as a trainee counselor for Stepping Stones East in 2010.
Aisam, 31, has a huge fan following across country and has become a heartthrob of thousand of girls after his success in the tennis world.

Chitral Shindoor pass Polo Festival

2011-07-17T10:41:00.000-07:00

Shandur Polo Tournament is an annual festival held every July at the Shandur Pass in the northern areas of Pakistan

The government of Khyber Pukhtunkhwa (North West Pakistan) has invited the newly-wed British Royal couple to the famous Shandur Polo tournament.

The chief minister of the Khyber Pukhtunkhwa province, Haider Hoti has officially confirmed the invitation to Prince William and Princess Kate to watch final of Shandur Polo tournament in Chitral on July 9th.

Shandur Polo Tournament is an annual festival held every July at the Shandur Pass in the northern areas of Pakistan where rival teams from Chitral and Gilgit play.

The tournament is held on Shandur Pass, the highest polo ground in the world at just under 4000 meters where the Hindukush, Pamir and Karakoram ranges meet.

The Shandur pass is about 3738 meter above sea level lies midway between Chitral and Gilgit.

The colorful festival also includes folk music and dancing and used to attract large number of foreigners in the past when militancy comparatively low in Pakistan.

History of Shandur festival

The polo tournament, played on Shandur Top, known as “playing on rooftop of the world”, had been a regular feature since centuries in the area.

The area has hosted this game since the past 800 years and history has it that in 1920s, King of the area has started the famous tournament for promotion of integration between different areas under his realm. He ordered the ruler of Moskuj (the Hindukush highland between Chitral and Gilgit), hold the polo tournament between the best players for the purpose.

In the past the local Mehtars , Mirs and Rajas (administrators, or rulers of states) were patrons of polo.

British link to Shandur Polo tournament:

The connection between this famous tournament dates back to 1930s when in 1936 the first polo tournament was organized by a British Political Agent, Major Cobb. He was said to be fond of playing polo under a full moon and thus had named the polo ground as "Moony Polo Ground".

In 1991 Princes Diana visited Chitral on a rainy day to much surprise of the people of the area. Later in 1997 the Duke of Edinburgh graced the tournament and gave away Duke of Edinburgh cup.

If Prince William and Princess Kate accepted the invitation it will be yet another occasion for northern Pakistan to host the Royal family besides it will also help in revising tourism in Pakistan.

- Asian Tribune -

Last-minute thriller sees Pakistan hold Netherlands 2-2

2011-07-17T10:17:00.000-07:00

Pakistan recovered well from their 4-0 thrashing by the Netherlands in a recent four-nation event by holding the top European side to a 2-2 draw in the first of their two-match test series in Amsterdam.

Pakistan opened the scoring through Mohammad Rashid only to see the hosts level terms before half-time.

The orange team then struck again in the opening minutes of the second-half, their repeated incursions into the Pakistan half yielding a 2-1 lead.

It was Sohail Abbas again to the rescue for Pakistan as he scored through a penaly corner minutes before time.

Team manager Khwaja Junaid sounded hopeful after the match and hoped the Greenshirts would continue to build on their draw.

“It was overall a better performance by the team,” Junaid told a local paper from Amsterdam.

“The players went into the ground with a fresh approach keeping their Four-Nations loss aside. We made fewer mistakes, which is a good sign.”

“If we manage to avoid those, there’s a possibility of a series-win.”

The second match of the series will be played today.

Kulsoom Abdullah makes weightlifting history

2011-07-17T10:14:00.000-07:00

“I'm really happy that I got this experience and that there's a lot of support, and I hope that it could encourage other women and people, whether it's weightlifting or another sport, to try competition because it's fun to meet people.” -Photo by AP

COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa: Kulsoom Abdullah didn’t win, but she notched a victory for diversity at the US weightlifting championships on Friday as she competed in clothing that covered her legs, arms and head.
Abdullah was cleared to compete in clothing that met the standards for modesty of her Muslim faith after the International Weightlifting Federation ruled a fortnight ago that competitors could wear a full-body “unitard” under the customary weightlifting uniform.
IWF rules previously stated that a weightlifter’s knees and elbows had to be visible so officials could confirm a lift was properly executed.
Abdullah, a 35-year-old from Atlanta, Georgia, competed before a small crowd of fellow lifters, their families and friends.
Wearing a black hijab and a black short-sleeved shirt with a tan, long-sleeved undershirt and long black socks, Abdullah cleared a snatch of 41 kilograms and a clean and jerk of 57 kilograms.
Abdullah finished fifth out of six in her 48 kilogram senior women’s weight class.
“I’m really happy that I got this experience and that there’s a lot of support, and I hope that it could encourage other women and people, whether it’s weightlifting or another sport, to try competition because it’s fun to meet people,” Abdullah said.
“I think it helps when people get along.”

Sweden beats France for 3rd in Women’s World Cup

2011-07-17T10:03:00.000-07:00

SINSHEIM, Germany: Marie Hammarstrom scored in the 82nd minute to give 10-woman Sweden a 2-1 victory over France in the third-place game at the Women’s World Cup on Saturday.

Down a player for almost 15 minutes after Josefine Oqvist was sent off for kicking Sonia Bompastor in the chest, Sweden won a corner kick that the French managed to clear at the near post.

But the ball popped out to Hammarstrom, who faked out a defender with a small side-volley, touched the ball a second time and then let fly with a thunderous left-footed strike from the edge of the box.

It was Hammarstrom’s first-ever goal for Sweden, and it allowed the Swedes to do the hippity-hoppity dance that’s become their trademark one last time.

Lotta Schelin staked Sweden to an early lead, scoring her second goal of the tournament in the 29th. Sara Larsson booted the ball from about midfield and Schelin, running at a dead sprint, caught up to it at the edge of the box.

As France goalkeeper Berangere Sapowicz rushed out, Schelin deftly flicked it into the net with the outside of her right foot.

The two then collided, and Sapowicz came down on the outside of her right ankle. She immediately fell to the ground and was soon removed from the game.

Despite losing silky smooth playmaker Louisa Necib to an injury in the 32nd, France managed to equalize in the 56th.

Blanketed by three defenders, Gaetane Thiney lost the ball but quickly managed to reclaim it and slide it to Elodie Thomas, who had replaced Necib. Thomas skipped a shot along the ground that was just beyond the outstretched hands of Hedvig Lindahl.

The teams were the top European finishers, qualifying them for next summer’s London Olympics.

PIA beat Army 3-1 in PPFL

2011-07-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

KARACHI: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) registered a win while the rest of the teams played draws in the three Pakistan Premier Football League (PPFL) matches played at different venues on Wednesday.

At the Korangi Baloch Football Stadium in Karachi, PIA beat Army 3-1.

The goals for the winners were scored by Saddam Hussain (31st min) and Zeeshan (58th and 82nd mins).

Sharjeel (66th min) reduced the margin for Army.

KESC and Navy drew 1-1 at Karachi’s Peoples Sports Complex. KESC scored first through Mohammad (43rd min) and Navy soon equalised through Mohammad Ramzan (57th min).

PEL and PMC Athletico also played a 1-1 draw at the Sadiq Shaheed Stadium in Quetta. Ashraf (36th min) scored for PEL and Mohammad Usman (55th min) restored parity for PMC Athletico.

Thursday’s fixtures:

Police v KRL (2.30pm) at Sadiq Shaheed Stadium, Quetta; Muslim FC v Wapda (5.00pm) also at Sadiq Shaheed Stadium, Quetta; KPT v PAF (5.00pm) at KPT Football Stadium, Karachi.

PHF names probables for Egypt hockey series

2011-07-15T09:27:00.000-07:00

LAHORE: Thirty probables, who will attend the training camp being held in Lahore from July 20 to prepare for the national junior hockey team for a series against Egypt, have been announced.

The five-match Test series will be held in Cairo from August 6 to 12.

The same team management has been retained under which Pakistan Under-18 team recently failed to defend the Under-18 Asia Cup title. Rana Mujahid will continue as manager-cum-chief coach while Danish Kaleem, Ahmed Alam and Anjum Saeed will assist him as coaches.

Probables:

Mazhar Abbas, Mohammad Safian, Wasim Abbas, Usman Tanvir, Hafiz Rizwan Ali, Asad Bashir, Arslan Qadir, Mohammad Irfan, Sultan Aamir, Mohammad Sohaib, Zohaib Ashraf, Mohammad Suleman, Bilal Qadir, Khurram Shahzad, Ali Shan, Hassan Mansoor, Rizwan Junior, Mohammad Dilber, Mohammad Adnan Anwar, Aleem Bilal, Khalid Bhatti, Mushtaq, Kashif Javed, Usman Rafique, Umar Bhutta, Ahmed Zubair, Mohammad Bilal Khan, Abdul Karim, Mohammad Umair, Abdul Zohaib Khan.

US to face Japan in women’s World Cup final

2011-07-15T08:59:00.000-07:00

MOENCHENGLADBACH: The United States struck twice late in the second half to beat France 3-1 on Wednesday and will face Japan in the women’s World Cup final.

The Japanese, playing in their first semi-final, beat Sweden by the same score with a double from Nahomi Kawasumi, including a spectacular 35-metre lob, to book a spot in Sunday’s final.

On a rainy afternoon, the Americans, who won the title in 1991 and 1999 and have never finished below third place in a women’s World Cup, took an early lead when Lauren Cheney flicked in a Carli Lloyd cross in the ninth minute.

France levelled after the break with a Sonia Bompastor cross that bounced past US keeper Hope Solo but two goals in three minutes from Abby Wambach (79th) and Alex Morgan (82nd) secured a third World Cup final appearance for the Americans.

“This is our journey, this is our dream,” a beaming Wambach said. “France are a great team. There were moments they were outplaying us but I am so proud of this team.”

“I know we are going to pull through. I have belief in this team. Everybody is working for each other.”

In Frankfurt, captain Homare Sawa turned from villain to hero by putting Japan 2-1 up on the hour after her defensive error had given Sweden a 10th minute lead.

Josefine Oqvist pounced on Sawa’s disastrous back pass, cut into the box and fired home from a tight angle but Japan recovered quickly as Kawasumi equalised nine minutes later after scrambling the ball over the line.

Sawa added the second with a close-range header after the Japanese had rattled the bar minutes into the second half and Kawasumi completed their comeback in style, catching Swedish keeper Hedvig Lindahl out with a spectacular lob.

FRENCH DOMINANCE

In Moenchengladbach, the Americans, who were under pressure from the start, scored against the run of play through Cheney but immediately dropped deep and some sloppy passing allowed France to come forward repeatedly.

“We lost our legs a bit but we picked up the fight,” said US coach Pia Sundhage, whose team needed a penalty shootout to overcome Brazil in the last eight. “I think it was obvious we had heavy legs so we had to adjust.”

With Sundhage sensing danger and bellowing from her coaching area, the French dominance almost paid off on the half hour when Gaetane Thiney tested Solo with a close-range effort.

Bompastor then rattled the bar with a fierce drive seconds later as France took complete control.

Wambach, who had scored an equaliser deep into extra time against Brazil, should have put the Americans further in front before the break but headed along the goal line from a metre.

The French got their just reward after 55 minutes when Bompastor levelled after whipping in a cross from the left that deceived Solo.

With France coach Bruno Bini bringing on another striker in the speedy Elodie Thomis as they went in search of the winner, the Americans struck at just the right time with Wambach making amends and heading in at the far post.

A smooth chip over keeper Berangere Sapowicz from Morgan three minutes later put the game beyond the French.

“We had our chances and we had a lot,” Bini said.

“We were as good as we could have been. But they have a lot of experience.”

Resumption of Indo-Pak series after assessing pros and cons: BCCI

2011-07-13T20:57:00.000-07:00

A series between arch-rivals India and Pakistan is scheduled for next year but a final decision would be made after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) makes a thorough assessment, the Indian board’s vice-president Rajeev Shukla said.

“The series is on our agenda and we will make the final decision after assessing the pros and cons in our meeting. The series is scheduled for next year and there is still a lot of time left,” Shukla said in a statment.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and BCCI recently held a meeting in Hong Kong on the sidelines of the ICC annual conference in which resumption of bilateral ties was discussed.

While cricket ties remain on hold the two countries will resume their football rivalry next month with a series of three international friendlies in England, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) said on Monday.

“Playing Pakistan is always special,” AIFF president Praful Patel said in a statement.

“It’s a positive sign that we will play a bilateral football series against Pakistan. I’m sure all sporting fans are eagerly looking forward to it.”

PCB Chief Operating Officer Subhan Ahmad said that his board was taking heart from AIFF’s announcement and called for a similar effort between the cricket teams.

Squash Championship in Belgium were forced to withdraw from the event because of visa issues.

2011-07-13T20:48:00.000-07:00

LONDON: The Pakistan squash team was dealt a severe blow when two of its brightest prospects for the upcoming WSF Men’s World Junior Individual Squash Championship in Belgium were forced to withdraw from the event because of visa issues.

Danish Atlas Khan and Nasir Iqbal, both 17-year-olds from Peshawar, were originally named as the third and fourth seeds. Khan is the reigning Asian Junior champion, with three PSA World Tour titles to his credit, while Iqbal, a former Asian U15 champion, already boasts two Tour titles.

“Whilst the realities of visa difficulties for players from some countries are a regular obstacle, it is very sad for the players concerned,” commented WSF CEO Andrew Shelley.

“They have spent years building up to the pinnacle of their junior career, and with Khan and Iqbal seeded in the top four, were poised to medal for themselves and Pakistan. We feel for them.”

PTF in hunt for a player to represent Davis Cup

2011-07-13T20:40:00.000-07:00

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) on Wednesday said that after the defeat at the hands of South Korea in the Davis Cup they are on the lookout for a new player who can represent the country in the singles event of the Davis Cup in the coming future.

PTF, senior vice-president, Irshad Bhatti told APP on Wednesday that “we could have performed a lot better in the singles event of the tie.”

Bhatti said that there were two options available for upcoming tennis players.

“Firstly we can bring in a foreign player and provide him with a Pakistani nationality so that he can represent our country in future in Davis Cup or we could go to every part of Pakistan in search for a player who has the passion to play and can be improved, trained and polished by the PTF’s assistance in future.”

Bhatti said that the Davis Cup requires fresh thinking and, ultimately, radical overhaul.

“We are giving our players too much time and space, allowing them to play their game. The PTF provided them with a foreign professional coach training camps but still if we get these kinds of results then we are not the ones to be blamed.

“We have been having discussions after this Davis Cup tie loss in the PTF and this is the idea have come up with to win,” Bhatti concluded.

Most Powerful Athletes of Worlds for 2011

2011-07-11T03:33:00.000-07:00

The Indianapolis Colts quarterback is more than simply the one of the best players in America’s sport. He’s also a model of class, sportsmanship and overall likability that fans (and sponsors) can’t get enough of.

2. Shaun White

White, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, combines dominance on the slopes with a friendly face and personality. All this adds up to instant marketability.

3. Tiger Woods

Tiger Woods may have fallen from grace, but he hasn’t fallen far. Last year he still made $70 million in endorsements to remain America’s highest paid athlete. But guess who’s not far behind.

4. Phil Mickelson

More than just a moneymaker and an ace golfer, Mickelson provided the feel good sports story of the year when his wife, recovering from breast cancer surgery, met him at the 18th hole of his third Masters victory.

5. Tom Brady

Although he couldn’t make it past Rex Ryan’s Jets, the three-time Super Bowl champ still led his New England Patriots to a staggering 14 regular season wins.

6. Shaquille O’Neal

At 38, the four-time NBA champ has a legitimate chance to earn his fifth ring as the back-up center for the Boston Celtics. Even if the big man falls short, it’s doubtful that his extreme marketability will suffer much.

7. Drew Brees

Want to know how to win the support of fans and sponsors the world over? Try bringing a championship to an American city that’s seen more hard-luck and shown more resiliency than any other. That’s exactly what Drew Brees did for New Orleans.

8. Lance Armstrong

Although Armstrong has seen his share of controversy over the past few years, no number of doping allegations can take away from his cycling accomplishments (winning seven Tour de Frances after beating cancer) and his charity work.

9. Albert Pujols

The perfect antidote to the backlash against baseball over Performance Enhancing Drugs, Pujols is proof that you don’t have to play dirty to dominate the game.

10. Apolo Anton Ohno

Ohno? Oh yes. The Olympic speed skater has won loads of gold medals, but he really captured America’s heart as a contestant on Dancing With the Stars.

11. LeBron James

To some, LeBron is a backstabber who betrayed his hometown team on national TV. To others, he’s a phenomenal player who, like many other athletes, simply wants the best chance to win. For the time being at least, it would appear the public has embraced the first perspective; LeBron slipped a whopping nine spots this year.

12. Michael Phelps

Although it’s been over two years since winning eight gold medals at the Beijing Olympics, that stellar achievement is enough for him to continue raking in the advertising bucks for years to come.

13. Lindsey Vonn

The darling of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Vonn is a sexy, hardworking downhill phenom whose star should only continue to burn bright into the future.

14. Kobe Bryant

In 2009, Bryant won his first NBA title without the big man Shaq down low. But that clearly wasn’t enough for him. Last year he won another title and now has a solid shot of a 2nd three-repeat, a feat that would only be rivaled by the great Michael Jordan.

15. Roger Federer

The Swiss Maestro has won 16 Grand Slam singles titles, more than any other male tennis player in history. He held the ATP number one spot for 237 straight weeks until earlier this month, when the following athlete overtook him…

16. Rafael Nadal

Winner of last year’s French Open, U.S. Open and Wimbledon, the dashing Spaniard’s advertising strategy is wildly varied: he’s been in a claymation viral video, but he’s also gearing up to be the new face (and body of course) of Armani underwear.

17. Eli Manning

While no match for big brother Peyton in the endorsement category, his heroics in Super Bowl XLII have made him a fan favorite pretty much everywhere outside of Foxboro.

18. Serena Williams

The accolades speak for themselves: 27 Grand Slam titles, 2 Olympic golds, and Williams shows no sign of slowing down. And with her fashion line and high-dollar endorsements, Williams’ influence is as potent as her crushing serves.

19. David Beckham

Plagued by injuries, Beckham didn’t exactly have a banner year on the field. But he’s the most recognizable face in international soccer which certainly counts for something ($40.5 million to be exact).

20. Dwayne Wade

Unlike LeBron, Wade didn’t have to betray anyone to get his own personal dream team in Miami. Nevertheless, it looks like he’s suffered from “guilt by association,” falling to number 20 after being ranked sixth in last year’s list.

Wrestling team confident of making CWC despite lack of funds

2011-07-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

LAHORE: A seven-member Pakistan wrestling team will compete in Commonwealth Wrestling Championship scheduled to be held from August 5-7 in Melbourne.

“As many as sixteen grapplers are attending a national training camp in Islamabad from which the final lineup will be selected shortly”, Secretary of the Pakistan Wrestling Federation Chaudhary Mohammad Asghar told APP.

He said Pakistan had good medal prospects in the championship because as was evident at the Commonwealth Games in India last year where the country won two golds and one silver.

“Our wrestlers are full of promise and talent and they are preparing for the event under a long term plan and coaches Sohail Rasheed and Mohammad Azeem are imparting training in two daily sessions,” Asghar said

Even though the Pakistan squad is facing financial issues in sending the team to Australia, Asghar remained hopeful of a good show at the event.

“President, PWF, Syed Aqil Shah has taken up the issue of providing necessary funds with Pakistan Sports Board and its Director General has assured that all out efforts would be made to send the team to Australia.”

“As soon as we sort out this problem we will be finalising our team and to applying for an NOC in the PSB,” he said.

Afridi, Razzaq to represent Melbourne in Big Bash

2011-07-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

SYDNEY: Melbourne Renegades named Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi as one of their two overseas recruits for Australia’s revamped domestic Twenty20 league on Friday.

The former Pakistan captain ignored more lucrative offers to join compatriot Abdul Razzaq, who was also named in the Renegades’ 16-member squad, local media said.

Afridi resigned in acrimony in May, citing differences with the Pakistan Cricket Board.

England’s Owais Shah has joined Pakistani paceman Rana Naveed as the second foreign recruit at Hobart Hurricanes.

West Indian Chris Gayle (Sydney Thunder) and Englishman Paul Collingwood (Perth Scorchers) are among other foreign players who have signed for the eight-team ‘Big Bash’ tournament starting on Dece. 16.

Pakistan’s chances against South Korea in Davis Cup

2011-07-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

ISLAMABAD: Pinning his hopes on ace players Aisam-ul-Haq and Aqeel Khan, Pakistan’s Davis Cup coach Riaz Jalil on Thursday claimed his squad had bright chances of pulling off a win against South Korea in the Asia Oceania Zone Group two second-round tie starting on Friday.

Aisam, Aqeel, Yasir Khan and Samir Iftikhar constitute the Davis Cup squad currently touring South Korea to test their mettle against the hosts for the Davis Cup Group-II tie.

Riaz, an American coach of Pakistani descent who has trained Pakistan’s Davis Cup team for over 20 days at the Pakistan Tennis Federation Complex, believes his squad can fare well in Korea.

“We have stars like Aisam and Aqeel in the squad. Aisam came all the way from London to join the Davis Cup team. So chances are bright,” Riaz told Dawn, insisting both the players would be instrumental in ensuring a win for Pakistan.

The coach added that Samir and Yasir were also in better shape.

“Samir did well during the training sessions whereas Yasir is also a better-ranked player,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) spokesman Irshad Bhatti said the federation would organise a month-long training session for U-14 and U-16 players at the PTF complex.

“We will be funding the training camp for the youth which will be held during the month of Ramazan,” he said.

Our Correspondent from Karachi adds: Pakistan face an uphill task when they square off against South Korea in the Davis Cup Asia Oceania Zone group two second-round tie in Gimcheon city.

Pakistan won 3-2 against Hong Kong while the Koreans thrashed Syria 4-1 in their first-round rubbers in March.

According to statistics, the Koreans enjoy a 4-2 edge over Pakistan in the Davis Cup ties played between them so far.

Pakistan, however, enter the contest with a 3-2 triumph behind them against the Koreans in the grade one relegation playoff final played on grass court at the Defence Club Lahore in 2003.

Though coming at home, the victory gives little advantage to Pakistan over their opponents.The duo of Aisam and Aqeel was instrumental in Pakistan’s success over Korea eight years back. Jalil Khan and Nomi Qamar were the other members of the

wining quartet.

Pakistan’s earlier triumph (3-2) against Korea came in the first round of Eastern pre qualifying draw at Peshawar in 1979. Though Pakistan have retained the team that whipped Hong Kong on their soil but like previously, Aisam and Aqeel will have to carry the burden on their shoulders.

While Yasir has been accompanying the Davis Cup team since 2006 when he went to Taiwan as an observer, Samir made his Davis Cup debut earlier this year against Hong Kong. Unfortunately, the other two players besides Aisam and Aqeel, travel as mere passengers due to a wide gap in performance.

According to the draws, Pakistan’s top player Aqeel faces Korea’s Kyu-Tae Im while Aisam meets Yong-Kyu Lim in the first and second singles.

Hosts Germany will join England, Japan and France

2011-07-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

New Zealand team members celebrate following the group B match between New Zealand and Mexico. -AP Photo

BERLIN: Hosts Germany will join England, Japan and France in the quarter-finals at the women’s World Cup following Tuesday’s 4-2 win over the French, who had the first player sent off at Germany 2011.

France goalkeeper Berangere Sapowicz was given her marching orders for a dangerous tackle on Germany’s Fatmire Bajramaj midway through the second half in Moenchengladbach as the Germans picked up their third straight win.

Goals from Kerstin Garefrekes, an Inka Grings double, and a last-gasp Celia Okoyino da Mbabi effort saw Germany win the tournament’s highest-scoring match with Marie-Laure Delie and Laura Georges getting two back for France.

But both coaches were furious with Finnish referee Kirsi Heikkinen who handed our five yellow cards in addition to Sapowicz’s red.

“I think it was overdone,” said Germany coach Silvia Neid.

“Bruno Bini (France coach) got really worked up because he got three yellow and one red. You didn’t dare to do anything after that. I think it was too much.”

The Germans, who are bidding for their third straight World Cup title, will now play Japan in Wolfsburg on Saturday in their quarter-final after their 2-0 defeat to England in Group B.

As Group A runners-up, France play Group B winners England on Saturday in Leverkusen in their quarter-final.

England’s Ellen White gave the Three Lions a great start against Japan in Augsburg with a goal in the 15th minute before Rachel Yankey sealed victory on 66 minutes.

In the day’s other matches, New Zealand earned a dramatic 2-2 draw with Mexico in Sinsheim after the equaliser came with the last kick of the Group B game as both teams took their bow at the women’s World Cup.

Mexico led 2-0 after 30 minutes thanks to Stephany Mayor and Maribel Dominguez, but the Kiwis hit back as captain Rebecca Smith scored with time almost up before teenager Hannah Wilkinson levelled in the 94th minute.

And Nigeria also signed off their campaign with a win after beating Canada 1-0 in Group A as both teams took their World Cup bow in Dresden.

Nigeria reacted fastest following a 10-minute-long power-cut towards the end of the second half as midfielder Perpetua Nkwocha scored the winner in the 84th minute when the lights went back on.

Pakistan Squash Federation overlooking top players

2011-07-06T09:17:00.000-07:00

Karachi: In a surprising move, the Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) has decided to go into the prestigious World Team Championship with a lineup of rookies, overlooking top players in Aamir Atlas Khan and Farhan Mehboob.Khan is ranked at No 28th while Farhan Mehboob is ranked at No 36 on the international circuit, however, the PSF has opted for players who are all above the top 100 in world rankings, making Pakistan an unseeded side in the event.Yasir Butt (105), Waqar Mehboob (138), Nasir Iqbal (161) and Hamzah Bokhari (199) will make up the Pakistan side in the event and are most likely to face squash powerhouses Egypt, Australia, England or France in the first round.The federation has a simple answer for this: Farhan failed in the trials while Aamir is serving a six-month ban.According to PPI, however, the ground realities are that Farhan was given only a day’s notice to reach Islamabad and participate in the trials.“I was exhausted and I was not in the condition to play competitive squash right after I came back after featuring in a tournament in Kuwait. The federation asked me to come and play in trials even though I tried to convince them that I needed a rest. Yasir Butt won the match against me. But had they given me at least a five-day notice, then, everyone knows Yasir is a mismatch for me,” Farhan said.In the previous edition of World Team Championship Pakistan defeated South Africa 2/1 in the play-off for fifth place producing their best result since finishing as runners-up in 1995.It was Aamir Atlas Khan, who took the biggest South African scalp of Stephen Coppinger to lead Pakistan to fifth position. Yasir Butt won the other match. Aamir Atlas Khan is serving a six-month ban, which completes on 15th July. However, the last date of submission of team-member names is 25th July.Judging by recent performances, Khan is in great form as he displayed recently in Jena International Squash Championship held in Kuwait, where he reached the final of the tournament.According to a source in the PSF, the decision to go without top players in the team event would only harm the confidence of the junior players.“It is also not good for them to feature in a top-class senior squash event before their time,” he said.

Pakistan Volleyball Federation lookout for foreign coaches

2011-07-06T09:03:00.000-07:00

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) is on the lookout for foreign coaches and are scoping out China and Serbia besides holding talks with Iranian coach Ali Reza Moameri, Secretary PVF Muhammad Afzal said on Wednesday.

“As these two events are very crucial for us we are trying our best to hire the services of a quality coach ahead of them,” Afzal told APP.

He said the PVF had requested Chinese Cultural Attaché in Pakistan to send it CVs of some of the best volleyball coaches in the country, while talks were also being held with Serbian coaches.

“As soon as we get CVs from them we will talk to Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) for necessary assistance,” he said.

According to sources the PVF is also negotiating the deal with Ali Reza but he is demanding a monthly package of $4000 besides other facilities. During his first stint as coach a couple of years ago, Reza guided Pakistan to their first bronze medal in the 26- year history of the Asian Junior Championship. At that time, the Iranian was being paid $3000 per month. After him, Pakistan hired Augusto Sabbatini, a Brazilian coach but relieved him soon after the Asian Games in China last year as he failed to put the team on the winning track.

collection of most beautiful sport action

2011-07-05T21:14:00.000-07:00

Men’s Singles Final : Wimbledon

2011-07-04T21:51:00.000-07:00

Women’s Champions Trophy: 2011

2011-07-04T21:36:00.000-07:00

Women,s World Cup Highlights 2011

2011-07-04T21:07:00.000-07:00

Marta lifts Brazil as Matildas stay in chase

2011-07-04T20:48:00.000-07:00

Brazil's defender Rosana (L) celebrates with her teammate Brazil's striker Marta after scoring. -AFP Photo

BOCHUM: Star forward Marta inspired Brazil to a 3-0 victory over Norway to reach the quarter-finals of the women’s World Cup as Australia stayed in the hunt with a 3-2 win over Equatorial Guinea Sunday.

“Thank God Marta is Brazilian. Thank God she is part of our squad,” said coach Kleiton Lima as the five-time world player of the year scored two goals and set up Rosana for a third.

“She is down to earth and humble and yet she is a genius,” said Lima of the 25-year-old who demonstrated her famed fancy footwork skills which had been lacking during their opening 1-0 win over Australia.

Brazil have six points from two games to head the group with 1995 winners Norway and Australia, who are both on three points, meeting in the final group match with the winner joining the South Americans in the last eight.

Brazil join France and Germany, who have already reached the knock-out round from Group A, with Japan going through in Group B, and the United States and Sweden advancing in Group C with one game to play.

The South Americans need just a point from their final outing against Equatorial Guinea on Wednesday to guarantee top spot which will decide whether they will play the USA or Sweden.

“Our quarter-final rivals, Sweden or the United States, will have a lot of problems even if they’re strong teams because we’re ready and we’ve come here to be world champions,” warned Marta.

Marta, the top player during the 2007 edition in China with seven goals on Brazil’s road to the final, finally got to give a demonstration of her skills despite a pitch made slippery by constant drizzle.

She broke through after 22 minutes when she outwitted Swedish defender Maren Mjelde.

And the game was over within minutes of the restart as Marta raced down the right flank, feeding the ball to Rosana, and two minutes later herself slipped the ball past Ingrid Hjelmseth.

Norway coach Eli Landsem lamented: “We simply didn’t have the speed that is required. It was impossible (to stop Marta). We did everything we could but we were punished for not being as fast as we could have been.”

Earlier Australia kept their dream alive with goals from Leena Khamis, Emily van Egmond and Lisa De Vanna, with the Africans getting two back thanks to captain Anonman in either half.

“I’m pleased with the win – it means we’re still in the competition,” said Australian coach Tom Sermanni.

“It was a game of contrasts, we played some excellent football and created great chances and at other times we made some very poor mistakes which could take five years off my life expectancy!”

“Hopefully we’re in a position to decide our own destiny.”

Sydney FC forward Khamis opened for the Matildas after eight minutes.

But there was some controversy in the 16th minute when Khamis hit the post and African defender Bruna caught the ball, believing a free-kick had been awarded, dropped it and played on.

The incident was not seen by Hungarian referee Gyoengyi Gaal, who later apologised through FIFA for missing the obvious hand-ball.

Anonman equalised after 21 minutes but the 11th-ranked Australians came out battling after the break.

Van Egmond, 17, got her first international goal three minutes later before substitute De Vanna got a third on 51 minutes. Anonman pulled one back for the African side after 83 minutes.

Equatorial Guinea coach Marcello Frigerio said he was proud of the effort shown by his 61st-ranked side who are out of the tournament after their second loss after a 1-0 opening defeat to Norway.

“We regret very much that some of our important players had to be left at home,” added Frigerio.

Sisters Salimata and Bilguisa Simpore, both accused of being men, were excluded from the team before the tournament while Anonman remained in the squad despite a pre-tournament gender row.

Monday is a rest day at the competition with the group stages concluding on Tuesday and Wednesday.

ICC delays contentious presidency debate

2011-06-29T08:48:00.000-07:00

HONG KONG: Cricket’s world governing body announced on Wednesday that it had deferred until October its decision on whether to scrap its controversial rotational presidency.

The decision spares the blushes of officials hoping to avoid a divisive battle over the issue, with the International Cricket Council (ICC) keen to present a united front as it wraps up its first annual conference in Hong Kong.

“The board decided to defer the proposed constitutional amendment to the nominations process for election of the ICC president and accordingly withdrew its proposal to the annual conference in this regard,” the ICC said in a statement.

Any big changes would have met fierce opposition from Pakistan and Bangladesh, who are scheduled to nominate the body’s next-but-one leader to succeed New Zealander Alan Isaac in 2014.

Memories are still fresh of last year’s embarrassing meeting, when countries flatly refused to endorse former Australian prime minister John Howard as the next ICC president, despite his nomination by Australia and New Zealand.

The debacle is thought to be at the heart of moves, reportedly spearheaded by India and England, to scrap the two-year rotational presidency, although details of any new system remain unclear.

Isaac is to take over from incumbent Sharad Pawar of India next year.

The executive board, on the last day of its meeting, unanimously agreed on an urgent independent review of its structure and process, to be completed by the next board meeting in October.

“I wholeheartedly welcome an independent review of the entire ICC governance and regard this as a major step to meet stakeholder expectations and the high standards of a world-class organisation,” said ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat.

Pakistan, which has not hosted a major international side since gunmen attacked the Sri Lanka team in 2009, requested to host an ICC event in 2018.

“We fully understand the… request and we will consider if it is possible to host an event in Pakistan subject to the standard safety and security clearances,” Lorgat said.

Bangladesh wins comfortably in World Cup qualifier

2011-06-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

Pakistani player Faisal Iqbal (L) competes for the ball with Bangladeshi football player Mohammad Nilkon (R) in the rain during the first round 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying football match between Bangladesh and Pakistan in Dhaka on June 29, 2011. Bangladesh scored 3-0. – Photo by AFP

DHAKA: Bangladesh scored in the opening minute to set up a 3-0 win over Pakistan in Wednesday’s first leg of their World Cup qualifier.
Host Bangladesh got the ideal start through Zahid Hasan Emily’s goal, and further strikes by Mohamed Zahid Hosain in the 22nd minute and Rethul Karim in the 56th completed the scoring.
Pakistan will attempt to make up the big deficit when it hosts Sunday’s second leg, with the eventual winner to meet Lebanon in the second round of Asian qualifying.

Special Olympics World Games in Athens

2011-06-25T11:24:00.000-07:00

KARACHI: Pakistan received a huge honour on the eve of the Special Olympics World Games in Athens when it was selected to carry the Olympic Torch from among the 185 participating countries at the historic opening ceremony scheduled for Saturday evening.

Reliable sources from Athens said Pakistan’s talented young swimmer Farah Vohra have been chosen to carry the torch for the strong 82-member contingent which will be leading all the teams at the grand ceremony.

Farah Vohra who hails from Karachi has been swimming for the past six years and is competing in two events — the 25-metre backstroke and 25-metre freestyle — at the World Games.

Ronak Lakhani, the senior Pakistan official in the delegation, said: “We specially chose Farah to carry the torch because she has overcome her disability to become a confident, articulate young woman with the help of the Special Olympics of Pakistan (SOP) programme. Pakistan is very proud of all the mentally-challenged people on our programmes throughout the country.”

Having met with a warm welcome upon arrival in Athens last Monday, the Pakistan delegation have spent the last five days enjoying the historic city and training alongside the sea.

Pakistan will be participating in eight sports competitions, namely athletics, aquatics, badminton, basketball, bocce (a ball game for low ability athletes), cycling, football and table tennis.—Agencies

Olympic misery for Iran China and North Korea

2011-06-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

SINGAPORE: China crashed out of London 2012 Olympics qualifying in controversial circumstances while Asian champions Japan survived a scare to make it safely through to the next stage.

Australia and South Korea also booked their places in the final qualifying round alongside resurgent Malaysia, while United Arab Emirates dashed North Korean hopes with a narrow 2-1 aggregate win.

But the biggest casualty of the night was China, who had a player sent off and a goal disallowed in Muscat before humble Oman scored three goals in extra time to run out 4-1 aggregate winners.

China, fighting to overturn a shock 1-0 deficit from the first leg in Shanghai, lost midfielder Zhang Linpeng to injury after just four minutes but managed to level the tie through Wu Xi deep into the second half.

But Cao Yunding was red-carded for a late tackle just three minutes later, before the linesman’s intervention ruled out a dramatic stoppage-time winner when Wu’s close-range strike was flagged offside.

During extra time in baking conditions, Hussain Al Hadhri scored twice and Yaqoob Abdul Karim added another to extend China’s miserable international football record.

“The weather was hot and the players are not used to this type of weather, and in extra time a lot of the players were suffering and we could not organise ourselves properly,” said assistant coach Li Bing.

“It is a shame we have lost the chance to play in the next phase, but we have learnt a lot from this match.”

Saki Oriki eased Japanese jitters in Kuwait when he netted first at Mohammed Al Hamad Stadium, extending their advantage to 4-1. But the nerves returned when Kuwait scored twice in the second half to run the Asian giants close.

A 1-1 draw in Jordan was enough for South Korea after they convincingly won the first leg in Seoul. But Australia had no concerns as they slotted four unanswered goals past Yemen to run up a 7-0 aggregate score.

Iraq overturned a 1-0 first-leg deficit to advance 2-1 at the expense of arch-rivals Iran, while Southeast Asian champions Malaysia beat Lebanon to go through.

Among other results, Saudi Arabia finished 6-1 winners against Vietnam, Qatar ousted India and Uzbekistan booted out Hong Kong.

This week’s 12 winning teams will be split into three groups of four for final qualifying, with the three top sides all gaining automatic entry to the London Olympics.

The second-placed teams go into a three-way round robin, with the winner playing off against a side from the African confederation for another ticket to the Games.

Men’s football is played as an under-23 tournament at the Olympics, although the rules allow for three over-age players.

Aisam, Bopanna knocked out in Wimbledon first round

2011-06-24T08:56:00.000-07:00

KARACHI: The pair of Pakistan’s Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and Indian Rohan Bopanna was knocked out in the first round of the men’s doubles competition at the Wimbledon tennis championships on Thursday.
The Colombian duo of Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah fought back from a set down to turn the tables on their opponents 2-6, 6-2, 21-19.—Correspondent

Pakistan flay Kazakhstan in Junior Asia Cup

2011-06-24T08:51:00.000-07:00

KARACHI: Pakistan’s junior hockey team outclassed Kazakhstan 12-0 in the third U-18 Junior Asia Cup in Singapore on Thursday.
Mohammad Umair scored four goals while Khurram Shahzad, Bilal Qadir and Arsalan Qadir got two each with Hafiz Rizwan and Mohammad Irfan adding one each.

Friday is a rest day in the championship with the first semi-final between Pakistan and South Korea to be played on Saturday.— Agencies

Pakistan to persuade India to revive Kirlosker Trophy

2011-06-24T08:47:00.000-07:00

The Kirlosker Trophy features the top players from the two countries. -File Photo

KARACHI: Pakistan Golf Federation (PGF) is trying to persuade its Indian counterpart, the Indian Golf Union IGU, to revive the prestigious Kirlosker Trophy later this year.

The Kirlosker Trophy features the top players from the two countries and is an annual feature. However, it has not been played since the 2007 edition when India defeated Pakistan to retain the title at Islamabad Golf Club. India was to host 2008 edition but the tournament was called off after Mumbai terrorist attacks.

Taimur Hassan, while talking to The News, said that the Kirlosker Trophy was a great tournament and should be revived.

“It can once again provide a great platform to golfers from both countries to play against each other and promote healthier sporting ties.”

PGF hoped to use this October’s Indian Open as a launch pad for their top professionals.

“We have good relations with India’s golf fraternity as we keep meeting each other every now and then at international forums and competitions,” Taimur explained.

“I will meet a top representative from India in Geneva in August and will discuss the possibility of promoting stronger golfing ties between Pakistan and India.”

He said he would like to meet IGU official on sidelines of the Rolex Open in Geneva in August and try and get berths for Mohammad Shabbir and his compatriot Muhammad Munir on the 2011 Indian Open.

“I will see whether something can be worked out so that Shabbir & Munir can play in Indian Open. It will be a great platform for the duo.”

Pakistan to participate in Taekwondo World Qualification tournament

2011-06-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

Pakistan taekwondo players will be encouraged by the international exposure. -Photo by APP

ISLAMABAD: A seven-member taekwondo team is participating in the World Qualification Tournament for the London Olympics from July 29 to June 3 at Baku, Azerbijan.

The contingent comprising Iftikhar Tabassum (president PTF), Rashid Mahmood Butt (head of team), Teo Kwang Loh (coach Male team), Murtaza Hassan Bangash, Arshad Atif, Kiran Bano and Samiya Naz will be participating in the event.

PTF, Secretary, Wasim Ahmed, has thanked the Pakistan Sports Board for support and cooperation for arranging the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Sports.

Waseem told APP that the participation in the championship will build the confidence of the players to show their skills and techniques at international level which will definitely help them gain better experience for the upcoming Asian Qualification Round for 2012 Olympics scheduled to be held in November 2011.

Pakistan to lock horns with India in polo World Cup qualifiers final

2011-06-24T08:15:00.000-07:00

Pakistan qualified for the World Cup after a gap of eight years after they edged out Australia in the semi-finals. -AP Photo

KARACHI: Pakistan is set to meet India in the final of Polo World Cup qualifying tournament to be held at Royal Pahang Polo Grounds on Saturday.

The two teams have had a great run in the tournament and the final is expected to be a thrilling affair.

Pakistan qualified for the World Cup after a gap of eight years after they edged out Australia in the semi-finals by half a goal, winning the tie by 8 ½ goals to 8.

On the other hand, the Indians trounced defending champions South Africa by 9 goals to 5 to book a place in the final. For Pakistan Samiullah and Taimur Needen played a pivotal role in the semi-final clash against Australia, the two who scored five goals between them would be aiming to repeat their performance in the final.

Meanwhile, the officials of Pakistan Polo Association are delighted with the performance of the team. Speaking to Dawn News, a spokesman of the Association stated that the players were geared up for the showdown with their arch rivals.

They added that the team has done a commendable job by qualifying for the World Cup as the competition was stiff in tournament with teams like Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and India fighting for three spots.

The two finalists would be joined by either Australia or South Africa who would be fighting for the last spot from Zone D. The 2011 edition of the World Cup will be held in San Luis, Argentina from11th to 25th October.

‘Losing to France an eye-opener for PHF’

2011-06-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

KARACHI: Former Olympian Shahnaz Sheikh on Tuesday said green-shirts’ thrashing at the hands of minnows France in the ongoing four-nation event in Dublin, Ireland is an eye-opener for the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), emphasising they must not take the results lightly.

The Pakistan squad is on an extensive tour of Europe in order to prepare a strong team for this year’s Champions Trophy and the all-important 2012 Olympics in London.

In Dublin, Pakistan lost their first match of the tournament to France, who recorded a convincing 4-2 win over the former world champions.

“Perhaps the defeat may not be that ugly, which the result suggests. It may be only the weather factor and after an extensive training camp in sizzling Islamabad, the team might have failed to deliver in chilling cold of Dublin. However, if a team is preparing for an impressive show for the Champions Trophy and Olympics then such results are enough to raise many eye-brows,” Shahnaz, Pakistan’s former team manager, stated.

The reason for the defeat should be evaluated and they [PHF] should know the reason for the defeat. What it suggests to me is that Pakistan team might be complacent against lowly-ranked France. However, the age factor of the team might also have done the damage. I think France played a fast game while our ageing players may have failed to tackle the quick French,” he reckoned.

“What I have observed in Pakistan for some tournaments is that they have failed to perform well against European teams and they are good enough to give tough time to Asian teams only.

“They defeated Asian teams and New Zealand in the Azlan Shah Cup while collapsed against England and Australia. In the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games, obviously there were only Asian teams. So, I think whenever they [Pakistan] face European teams they fail to deliver,” he said.

Shahnaz noted that the European teams play pressure game, which forces Pakistan to go defensive. “Defensive game had never been the green-shirts’ approach and therefore they would always fail miserably by playing in this fashion. They must always play belligerent hockey as it has been the natural style of Pakistani players,” he underscored.—Agencies

Federer off to flying start after Serena shows rare emotion

2011-06-22T19:53:00.000-07:00

LONDON: Defending champion Serena Williams, who described her recent struggles against life-threatening blood clots as like being on her death bed, broke down in tears on Tuesday on her Wimbledon return.

The four-time winner, watched by US pop superstar Diana Ross and England’s Ashes-winning cricketers in the Royal Box, battled past Frenchwoman Aravane Rezai 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 in what was only her third match in 11 months.

“I usually don’t cry, I don’t understand it. It’s been so hard, I never dreamt I’d be here,” said Williams, whose traumatic year started with a foot injury and then continued with emergency surgery to removed blood clots on her lungs.

Meanwhile, six-time men’s champion Roger Federer barely broke sweat in clinching a 7-6, 6-4, 6-2 win over Mikhail Kukushkin of Kazakhstan.

Third-seeded Federer suffered a shock quarter-final exit against Tomas Berdych last year, but never looked in trouble against tournament debutant Kukushkin.

The Swiss star, holder of a record 16 Grand Slam titles, fired down 12 aces and unleashed 53 winners in his quickfire Centre Court win.

Three-time finalist Andy Roddick eased into the second round with a 6-4, 7-6, 6-3 over German qualifier Andreas Beck, while former US Open winner Juan Martin del Potro beat Flavio Cipolla 6-1, 6-4, 6-3.

On a day when 95 singles matches were due to be played because of Monday’s torrential downpours, second seed Novak Djokovic begins against Jeremy Chardy of France.

Women’s world No 1 Caroline Wozniacki raced into the second round as she routed Spain’s Arantxa Parra Santonja 6-2, 6-1, taking just 59 minutes to demolish the world No 105.

Former world No 1 Jelena Jankovic, the 15th seed, slumped to a first round loss, going down to Spanish left-hander Maria Jose Martinez 5-7, 6-4, 6-3.

Results (prefix number denotes seeding):

Men’s singles:

First round: 20-Florian Mayer (Germany) bt Daniel Evans (Britain) 7-6 (7-5), 7-6 (7-1), 3-6, 6-4; Karol Beck (Slovakia) bt Carlos Berlocq (Argentina) 4-6, 7-6 (8-6), 4-6, 6-2, 6-4; Andreas Seppi (Italy) bt Albert Montanes (Spain) 6-4, 6-4, 7-5; 13-Viktor Troicki (Serbia) bt Maximo Gonzalez (Argentina) 3-6, 6-0, 7-6 (7-3), 6-3; 3-Roger Federer (Switzerland) bt Mikhail Kukushkin (Kazakhstan) 7-6 (7-2), 6-4, 6-2; Xavier Malisse (Belgium) bt Mischa Zverev (Germany) 6-2, 6-3, 6-2; Lukasz Kubot (Poland) bt Arnaud Clement (France) 6-4, 6-2, 3-6, 5-7, 6-4; Bernard Tomic (Australia) bt 29-Nikolay Davydenko (Russia) 7-5, 6-3, 7-5; 21-Fernando Verdasco (Spain) bt Radek Stepanek (Czech Republic) 2-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (8-6), 9-7; Lu Yen-hsun (Taiwan) bt Tommy Robredo (Spain) 6-4, 6-4, 6-1; Ivan Ljubicic (Croatia) bt 27-Marin Cilic (Croatia) 7-6 (7-2), 3-6, 6-3, 6-4; Victor Hanescu (Romania) bt Jaroslav Pospisil (Czech Republic) 6-4, 6-3, 6-2; 24-Juan Martin Del Potro (Argentina) bt Flavio Cipolla (Italy) 6-1, 6-4, 6-3; 8-Andy Roddick (US) bt Andreas Beck (Germany) 6-4, 7-6 (8-6), 6-3; Tobias Kamke (Germany) bt Blaz Kavcic (Slovenia) 6-3, 7-6 (7-4), 5-7, 6-1; 26-Guillermo Garcia-Lopez (Spain) bt Andrey Golubev (Kazakhstan) 6-3, 6-3, 0-0 – Golubev retired; Ivo Karlovic (Croatia) bt 23-Janko Tipsarevic (Serbia) 7-5, 3-1 – Tipsarevic retired; 25-Juan Ignacio Chela (Argentina) bt Marinko Matosevic (Australia) 6-4, 6-4, 6-7 (6-8), 6-2; 15-Gilles Simon (France) bt Edouard Roger-Vasselin (France) 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (7-3); Sergiy Stakhovsky (Ukraine) bt Daniel Cox (Britain) 6-2, 6-4, 6-4; Robin Haase (Netherlands) bt Pere Riba (Spain) 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.

Women’s singles:

First round: 4-Victoria Azarenka (Belarus) bt Magdalena Rybarikova (Slovakia) 6-4, 3-2 — Rybarikova retired; Elena Baltacha (Britain) bt Mona Barthel (Germany) 6-2, 6-4; 1-Caroline Wozniacki (Denmark) bt Arantxa Parra Santonja (Spain) 6-2, 6-1; 25-Daniela Hantuchova (Slovakia) bt Vitalia Diatchenko (Russia) 4-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-3; Petra Martic (Croatia) bt Vania King (US) 5-7, 6-2, 6-2; 7-Serena Williams (US) bt Aravane Rezai (France) 6-3, 3-6, 6-1; Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez (Spain) bt 15-Jelena Jankovic (Serbia) 5-7, 6-4, 6-3; Kateryna Bondarenko (Ukraine) bt Alize Cornet (France) 7-5, 6-2; Virginie Razzano (France) bt Sania Mirza (India) 7-6 (7-4), 2-6, 6-3; 14-Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova (Russia) bt Lesia Tsurenko (Ukraine) 6-4, 7-6 (7-3); Tamira Paszek (Austria) bt Ayumi Morita (Japan) 5-7, 6-3, 6-0; Barbora Zahlavova Strycova (Czech Republic) bt Aleksandra Wozniak (Canada) 7-6 (9-7), 6-4; 11-Andrea Petkovic (Germany) bt Stephanie Foretz Gacon (France) 6-3, 6-4; Anne Keothavong (Britain) bt Naomi Broady (Britain) 6-2, 6-4; Rebecca Marino (Canada) bt Patricia Mayr-Achleitner (Austria) 6-3, 7-6 (7-5); 29-Roberta Vinci (Italy) bt Vera Dushevina (Russia) 7-5, 6-2; Nadia Petrova (Russia) bt Vesna Dolonts (Russia) 6-3, 6-4; Marina Erakovic (New Zealand) bt Chang Kai-chen (Taiwan) 6-4, 6-2; Simona Halep (Romania) bt Bojana Jovanovski (Serbia) 6-1, 6-2; Stephanie Dubois (Canada) bt Irina Falconi (US) 6-2, 6-2; 8-Petra Kvitova (Czech Republic) bt Alexa Glatch (US) 6-2, 6-2; 32-Tsvetana Pironkova (Bulgaria) bt Camila Giorgi (Italy) 6-2, 6-1.

Monday’s remaining result:Men’s singles:

First round: 4-Andy Murray (Britain) bt Daniel Gimeno-Traver (Spain) 4-6, 6-3, 6-0, 6-0.—Agencies

London 2012 unveils ‘golden cheesegrater’ Olympic torch

2011-06-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

The relay torch for the London 2012 Olympic games is seen as it is unveiled at St Pancras station in central London. -AP Photo /Dawn News

LONDON: The London 2012 Olympics has unwittingly acquired its first iconic image after unveiling an Olympic torch design which looks like a huge cheesegrater on Wednesday.

The gold-coloured aluminum torch has the meshed appearance of the useful kitchen implement due to the presence of 8,000 holes supposed to represent each person who will carry it on the torch relay.

Ignoring the unwelcome comparsions, the designers said its triangular shape symbolises the three times that London has staged the Games in 1908, 1948 and 2012, the faster, higher stronger motto of the Olympic movement and the sport, education and culture triple vision of the 2012 Games.

After having its flame ignited by sunlight at Ancient Olympia, the torch relay will begin next May at Land’s End, the most south westerly point of the country, and travel to the islands of the Outer Hebrides north of Scotland before finishing with the symbolic lighting of the cauldron in a yet-to-be-revealed location in the Olympic Park on July 27.

Organisers want half the 8,000 torch relay runners to be aged between 12 and 24 and the other half to be made up of people who have inspired others or made a contribution to their local community. The public can nominate people for the role.

A promise that the torch would be carbon-free failed to materialise and instead it will burn a traditional gas mixture.

“We were very close, we just didn’t get there,” said Games head Seb Coe.

Pakistan contingent to depart on 20th

2011-06-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

LAHORE: A 90-member Pakistan contingent will be departing for Athens, Greece, on June 20 for the Special Olympics World Summer Games 2011.

Over 7,500 Special Olympics athletes from 185 nations will compete in 22 events, starting from June 25.

Five athletes denied visas to participate in Special Olympics

2011-06-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is the first time ever that a visa has been rejected for the Special Olympics Pakistan team. -File Photo

KARACHI: The Greek Embassy in Islamabad has rejected five visas for the Special Olympics delegation heading for the Olympic World Games in Athens, Greece, on Monday.

“Three athletes, namely, basketball players Ayaz Ahmed and Sabah Ilyas and badminton player Mohammad Asif Khan Ghauri along with Global Youth Activation Summit (GYAS) team leader Sarah Alam and the contingent’s cameraman Nofil Naqvi have been refused the visas,” Head of the Delegation Ronak Lakhani told Dawn on Friday.

“Besides, having to leave without them, we are now also facing another problem of how to send back photographs and footage of Team Pakistan’s performance at the World Games,” she added.

Asked as to what was the reason for refusing visas, she said: “They have given us no reasons while flatly refusing to do the needful.”

According to a Special Olympics of Pakistan (SOP) Media Coordinator Saima Mohsin, this is the first time ever that a visa has been rejected for the Special Olympics Pakistan team.

“The Pakistan delegation has participated in six Olympic games all over the world since 1991. In 2007 in Shanghai, China, Team Pakistan won 15 gold medals, 20 silver medals and 16 bronze medals. The SOP had high hopes for these World Games too,” she said.

“Our athletes were due to participate in eight sports: athletics, aquatics, badminton, basketball, bocce [a ballgame for low ability athletes], cycling, football and table tennis.

“While the SOP office appreciates security and immigration concerns, it is deeply disappointed by the Greek Embassy’s decision,” she concluded.

Defending champions Army to face Police in final

2011-06-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

10th National Men's Netball Championship. -White Star Photo

PESHAWAR: Police and Army reached the final of the 10th National Men’s Netball Championship-2011 at the Qayyum Sports Complex on Saturday.
In the first semi-final, Police beat Sindh 35-27 while the Army edged out Punjab 28-27.
The final will be played on Sunday after the third-position match between Sindh and Punjab.— Agencies

Afridi hopes to make fresh start

2011-06-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

Shahid Afridi chats with a polio-afflicted child during a “Make A Wish” event in Karachi.—AFP

KARACHI: Former captain Shahid Afridi said on Saturday he hoped to make a fresh start playing for Hampshire following his clashes with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) which fined him Rs4.5 million for disciplinary breaches.

The 31-year-old locked horns with the PCB by announcing his retirement from international cricket after being dumped as one-day captain, and criticising the current management.

The PCB said Afridi violated the players’ code of conduct, suspended his central contract and revoked permission for him to play abroad, preventing him from joining Hampshire in the ongoing Twenty20 league in England.

Afridi challenged the decision last week but the matter was settled out of the court following a meeting with PCB chairman Ijaz Butt in Islamabad, which followed Afridi’s appearance before the disciplinary committee on Thursday.

The committee restored Afridi’s no-objection certificate (NOC) to clear the way for him to play abroad but levied a heavy fine.

Afridi said he would fly to England on Tuesday with a fresh mind.

“The last 15 days were very difficult for me, but I have got the NOC to play in England and hope to put everything behind me, “Afridi said.

The hugely popular all-rounder said he hoped to perform well for Hampshire in their title defence.

“I have no training for two weeks but hopefully I will start training and then do well for the county,” said Afridi, who will also feature in the inaugural Sri Lankan Premier League in July-August.

Afridi said he had decided not to appeal against the fine. “PCB took a decision which was acceptable to me, so it’s past for me now,” he said.

“I will play domestic cricket if I am available,” he added.—AFP

Stars of women’s game set for World Cup

2011-06-19T08:38:00.000-07:00

Members of Mexico's national women's football team warm up before a test match in the northern German city of Goettingen. -AFP Photo

BERLIN: World Cup fever has gripped Germany as the stars of the women’s game prepare to chase the ultimate prize in football in the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup which kicks off here next Saturday.

Brazil’s five-time Player of the Year Marta and all-time World Cup top scorer Birgit Prinz of Germany are among the big names who will headline the 51-million-euro extravaganza which takes place over three weeks in nine cities.

Sixteen teams are battling for the top prize with over 670,000 tickets of the one million on offer sold.

Five years after the successful hosting of the men’s event, expectations are high that the German women can bring glory to the host nation and capture an unprecedented third successive title.

The tournament kicks off with Germany taking on CONCACAF champions Canada in Berlin’s 75,000-seater Olympic Stadium on June 26 with the final set for Frankfurt on July 17.

Germany will be joined by the United States, Australia, North Korea, Japan, France, Norway, England, Sweden, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico, Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria, Brazil, and Colombia.

Interest in women’s football is higher in Germany than in many other countries, and coverage for this year’s edition looks set to exceed all previous tournaments being broadcast to more than 200 countries worldwide.

“The World Cup in Germany is going to be spectacular,” said Brazil striker Cristiane.

“I played there and I know just how much passion they have for the sport and the structure they have at their disposal.

“The tickets for our opening game are already almost sold out. It’s going to be the best World Cup ever,” added the former Turbine Potsdam and Wolfsburg player.

Ridiculed in the past particularly for the poor quality of goalkeeping the women’s game has developed since the first World Cup in 1991 largely thanks to the technically sophisticated styles of players such as Marta, Prinz and former US star Mia Hamm.

The United States and Germany have traditionally dominated the tournament winning two titles each with Norway taking the honours in 1995.

Once again Germany and the USA, the two-time Olympic gold medalists, are among the favourites as Colombia and Equatorial Guinea make their World Cup debuts.

Germany start in Group A with Canada, Nigeria and France.

The USA, the top ranked team, have bounced back from their struggle through qualifying by winning the Algarve Cup in Portugal, and are in Group C with North Korea, Colombia and Sweden.

Japan, New Zealand, Mexico and England face off in Group B, while Group D matches 2007 runners-up Brazil with Asian champions Australia, Norway and Equatorial Guinea.

Hamm, who earned 275 caps in her 17-year career, believes Germany will be difficult to beat.

“I think they’re really looking forward not only to putting on a great show, but also to competing at the highest level in front of their home fans,” said Hamm.

“They’re very committed to the women’s side of the game, but they’re also the team everybody else will be trying to beat.”

Group matches run until July 6 with the top two teams advancing to the knockout rounds starting three days later.

Pakistan rugby team in Jakarta for Asian event

2011-06-19T08:33:00.000-07:00

The Pakistan Rugby Union (PRU) has sent the team two days in advance so that the players could acclimatise and train at the venue of the event. -File Photo

KARACHI: The Pakistan rugby team arrived in Jakarta on Saturday for the HSBC Asian 5 Nations Division III Rugby Tournament which will be contested from June 21-26.

The Pakistan Rugby Union (PRU) has sent the team two days in advance so that the players could acclimatization and train at the venue of the event.

Team manager Khurram Haroon, reporting from Jakarta, informed the PRU the whole squad was really upbeat about the contest and the boys were gelling well together amid a positive atmosphere. “The real training will start tomorrow morning,” said Khurram.

The coaching duo of Mike Pirrit and Rizwan Malik will continue their good work on the tour. Commenting on the two-day camp in Jakarta, Rizwan said: “Thanks to PRU, we have had this chance of getting two full training sessions in Jakarta which will give us a little extra boost.”

Squad:

Abu Baker, Adnan Saeed Niazi, Ahmed Mumtaz, Anwaar-ul-Haq Zafar, Arsalan Zahid, Babar Mohammad, Kawar Ashraf, Khalid Mahmood, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Mannan Naseem, Umar Shafqaat, Salman Majeed Wyne, Shakeel Ahmed, Umar Islam, Umar Usman, Shahbaz Munir, Imad Nasir, Mansoor Rehan, Shuaib Aftab Javed, Sair Riaz, Saqib Murtaza, Haroon Jahanzeb Durrani, Amrez Hamid.—Agencies

Australia to face New Zealand

2011-06-14T09:51:00.000-07:00

MELBOURNE: Australia will kick off their home cricket season in December with two test matches against trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand before taking on the world’s top-ranked test side India in a four-match series, Cricket Australia said on Tuesday.

Former top dogs Australia have slumped to fifth in the world test rankings and new captain Michael Clarke faces a stiff challenge to salve home fans still smarting from the Ashes debacle, which concluded in January, with victory over the sub-continental power.

After playing December tests against New Zealand at the Gabba in Brisbane and Hobart’s picturesque Bellerive Oval, Australia play India in Melbourne for the traditional Boxing Day test before the series moves to Sydney, Perth and Adelaide respectively.

“With the commencement of the ICC World Test Championship we know that every test win is vital and the Australian team will be keen to start the home season positively against New Zealand,” Cricket Australia boss James Sutherland said in a statement.

Australia, who are in the throes of a comprehensive team performance review following their 3-1 loss to England in the Ashes, need to be ranked in the top four to qualify for the ICC’s first test world championship, slated for 2013.

Leading one-day international side Australia and World Cup holders India then play two Twenty20 matches in February before being joined by Sri Lanka for 12 ODI matches excluding finals, in the home side’s first tri-series in four years.

Australia play World Cup finalists Sri Lanka in three tests, five one-day internationals and two Twenty20 matches in a tour starting in August but are battling a raft of injuries, including finger complaints for former captain Ricky Ponting and wicketkeeper Brad Haddin.

The side has also been rocked by huge criticism of team selection policies after 35-year-old opening batsman Michael Katich was denied a central contract, signalling the likely end of his test career.

The Australian 2011-12 cricket schedule is as follows:

Test series:

Dec. 1-5 Australia v New Zealand (Gabba)

Dec. 9-13 Australia v New Zealand(Bellerive Oval)

Dec. 26-30 Australia v India(MCG)

Jan. 3-7 Australia v India (SCG)

Jan. 13-17 Australia v India (WACA)

Jan. 24-28 Australia v India(Adelaide Oval)

Twenty20 matches:

Feb. 1    Australia v India (Sydney Olympic Park)
Feb. 3    Australia v India(MCG)
ODI matches:
Feb. 5    Australia v India (MCG)
Feb. 8    India v Sri Lanka (WACA)
Feb. 10 Australia v Sri Lanka (WACA)
Feb. 12 Australia v India(Adelaide Oval)
Feb. 14 India v Sri Lanka (Adelaide Oval)
Feb. 17 Australia v Sri Lanka(SCG)
Feb. 19 Australia v India(Gabba)
Feb. 21 India v Sri Lanka (Gabba)
Feb. 24 Australia v Sri Lanka (Bellerive Oval)
Feb. 26 Australia v India (SCG)
Feb. 28 India v Sri Lanka (Bellerive Oval)
March 2 Australia v Sri Lanka (MCG)
March 4 1st Final (Gabba)
March 6 2nd Final (Adelaide Oval)
March 8 3rd final (Adelaide Oval)

Pakistani cueists gear up without coach

2011-06-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan cueists, Mohammad Sajjad and Shahid Aftab are training without a coach here at Pakistan Snooker and Billiards Hall for participation in ENOC Snooker team International Championship.

The event is scheduled to be held in Dubai, UAE, from June 24-28 and Sajjad and Shahid will be participating in the team event.

A source in the Pakistan Billiard and Snooker Association (PBSA) told APP on Tuesday that “we do not have any financial assistance to hire any international or local coach who can give a bit more tips to these players.”

“We wrote a letter to the Director General of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) last month to give us some grant so that we can hire a coach for the team.”

“We are still waiting for the PSB’s reply but there is not much time left as our cueists will be departing for Dubai on June 23 for participation in the event,” he told APP.

The source said that the PBSA had a couple of options in mind but they were ruled out since the camp had just a few days left.

“I’m confident that our players can manage without a coach and will bring laurels to the country when they return back,” the source added.

Afghanistan, India, Thailand, Malaysia, China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and hosts UAE are to participate in the event.

“The event carries a cash prize of US $5,000 for winners, US $2,500 for the runner-up and US $1500 for losing semi-finalists. The highest break performer will get US $500,” he concluded.

Afridi meet Chairman Ijaz Butt with Govt Officials

2011-06-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

Pakistan’s former ODI captain Shahid Afridi and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ijaz Butt held a closed-door meeting in Islamabad amidst the presence of several members of the government, DawnNews reported.

According to a source within the PCB, the objective of the meeting was to thaw out a quick solution to the present crisis that is engulfing Pakistan cricket.

An out-of-court solution was also discussed, the source added.

Some sections of the media stated that Afridi was likely to be reissued clearance to play overseas after he withdraws his petition in the Sindh High Court.

PCB spokesman Nadeem Sarwar told The Associated Press the meeting took place on Tuesday, but declined to comment further.

It must be noted here that while the lawyers of Afridi and the PCB are preparing for a Sindh High Court hearing on 16th June, pressure from various political circles might force both parties to settle the issue out of court.

Afridi went to court after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) punished him for allegedly breaching a code of conduct by announcing his retirement after he was dumped as one-day captain, and levelling allegations against the board.

It suspended his central contract and revoked all his no-objection certificates (NOCs), which would have allowed him to play in England – where he was due to represent Hampshire in the Twenty20 league – and Sri Lanka.

The Sindh high court in Karachi adjourned Afridi’s case until June 16, when PCB officials are expected to justify their sanctions against the all-rounder before a two-member bench makes a decision.

Pakistan’s Davis Cup tie against S. Korea

2011-06-14T08:52:00.000-07:00

KARACHI: The training camp for Pakistan’s Davis Cup tie against South Korea next month begins on Wednesday in Islamabad.

US-based coach Jalil Riaz will supervise the camp which will not include Pakistan’s ace tennis player Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi who is set to take part in the Wimbledon Championship.

Qureshi will fly directly to Korea from England for the Davis Cup tie, Pakistan Tennis Federations Senior Vice President Irshad Bhatti told PPI.

Aqeel Khan, the current Pakistan’s No 1 would join the camp on 17th June after his coaching stint with Sri Lanka’s junior team.

Meanwhile, upcoming star Samir Ifikhar will also join the camp the same day as he is currently in the UK due to his academic commitments. The fourth member of the Korea bound team is Yasir Khan, the younger brother of Aqeel Khan.

Others to participate in the camp are Jalil Khan, M. Abid, Muzammil and Muddasir.

“This will be a top-class tennis training camp and therefore we have also called two youngsters Muzammil and Mudassir to get exposure and gain confidence by playing against top-class national players,” Irshad said.

Denied of home-advantage for some years, Pakistan defeated Hong Kong at their home earlier this year and they would now face South Korea in the Asia Oceania Group-II tie from 8th to 11th July. A win in the contest will ensure the teams promotion to Group-I.

Iranian football team banned for wearing Islamic dress

2011-06-06T09:04:00.000-07:00

The row over what Iran's women players are allowed to wear has been brewing for more than a year. FIFA banned the team last April due to their plan to wear headscarves, in accordance with the Islamic dress code which requires all women in Iran to cover their hair in public. -Photo by AFP

TEHRAN: Iran will complain to world soccer’s governing body FIFA after its women’s team were banned from a qualifying game for next year’s Olympics due to their Islamic dress, the ISNA news agency reported on Sunday.

The Iranian team were banned from a match against Jordan shortly before the game was due to start in Amman on Friday, Iran’s state-run Press TV reported.

Jordan were awarded a 3-0 win in the second-round qualifying match.

“We will file a complaint to FIFA against the official in charge of the matches,” Ali Kafashian, head of Iran’s football federation, was quoted as saying by the student news agency ISNA.

The row over what Iran’s women players are allowed to wear has been brewing for more than a year. FIFA banned the team last April due to their plan to wear headscarves, in accordance with the Islamic dress code which requires all women in Iran to cover their hair in public.

The Iranian federation made changes to the kit and believed it had reached an acceptable compromise.

A photograph on Press TV’s website (www.presstv.ir) showed players at Friday’s match in white tracksuits and head coverings that concealed their hair and ears, kneeling around the Iranian flag on the pitch.

“Although it has been said in FIFA’s regulations that no country can play with Islamic dress, we had necessary negotiations with FIFA officials,” Kafashian said.

“Unfortunately, I do not know why the Bahraini official in charge of the matches refused to let our team play.”

News reports in Iran stressed the Bahraini nationality of the official. Iran has been a vocal critic of the Sunni Muslim Bahraini monarchy’s violent crackdown on democracy protestors from the Shi’ite majority in recent months.

Afridi returns home hoping for ‘justice’

2011-06-06T02:39:00.000-07:00

Former Pakistani cricket captain Shahid Afridi greets supporters upon his return to Karachi, on June 5, 2011. Thousands of cheering fans greeted Afridi as he returned home on June 5, hoping to “get justice” in his battle with the country's cricket authorities. – Photo by AFP

KARACHI: Thousands of cheering fans greeted former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi as he returned home on Sunday hoping to “get justice” in his battle with the country’s cricket authorities.

The 31-year-old’s attempts to join Hampshire for the English Twenty20 season were halted when the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revoked his permission to play following his decision to retire from international cricket last week.

Around 3,000 fans gathered at Karachi’s international airport in support of the all-rounder, chanting slogans against the PCB and its chairman Ijaz Butt.

“I will decide on my future course of action on Monday after consulting my lawyers and hope to get justice,” Afridi told AFP.

Afridi took the abrupt decision to retire in protest after he was replaced as Pakistan’s one-day captain last month despite leading the side to the World Cup semi-final earlier this year.

In a situation that will be all too familiar to Pakistan fans, differences had developed between Afridi and coach Waqar Younis, prompting the all-rounder to make his grievances public — which led to the PCB replacing him.

In announcing his retirement, Afridi accused the PCB of mistreating him and vowed not to play under the current set-up of the board, headed by Butt.

The PCB responded by suspending Afridi’s contract and revoking the so-called “No-Objection Certificate” that would have allowed him to play for Hampshire in the Twenty20 tournament.

The board also convened a three-man disciplinary committee to deal the case and ordered Afridi to appear before it on June 8.

Afridi said he was never bothered about the captaincy.

“It’s not a matter of being replaced as captain, it’s a matter of honour,” he said.

“A lot of other players also feel they were mistreated but they cannot go public fearing for dire consequences.” Since announcing his retirement Afridi has received political support, with opposition Pakistan Muslim League (N) and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement, an ally of the ruling Pakistan People’s Party, vowing to support him.

The PCB said it was concerned that Afridi’s case had turned into a political issue.

“PCB notes with great concern that an internal disciplinary action against Afridi is being converted into a political issue. A number of political functionaries are interfering in what is essentially an internal disciplinary matter of the PCB,” a statement from the Board said Sunday.

“PCB has been criticised for being ineffective in the past in the context of discipline. It would now appear an attempt by some forces to prevent the Board from implementing the code of conduct and their act may well damage Pakistan cricket,” the statement said.

Rafael Nadal 'honoured' to match Borg feat:French Open:

2011-06-06T00:33:00.000-07:00

French Open final highlights - Nadal v Federer

Rafael Nadal said he is honoured to be compared to Bjorn Borg after equalling the Swede's record of six French Open titles with victory over Roger Federer.

Nadal won 7-5 7-6 (7-3) 5-7 6-1 to claim his 10th Grand Slam and retain the world number one ranking.

"It's very special to equal the six French Opens of Bjorn Borg - it's an honour to be compared to Borg," stated the 25-year-old Spaniard.

"But the most important thing is to win Roland Garros."

Nadal's 10 titles consist of six French Opens, two Wimbledons, one US Open and one Australian Open.

Federer, 29, still leads the way with 16 majors, but with Nadal almost five years younger than the Swiss, expectations are high that the Spaniard will pass that total.

However, he was keen to play down the hype, adding: "I'm not the best player in the history of tennis but I'm amongst the best and that's enough for me."

Nadal's coach and uncle Toni Nadal said Sunday's win was the most difficult of all his nephew's triumphs in Paris after he struggled for fluency in the opening week.

Nadal needed five sets to see off John Isner of the United States in the first round in Paris and complained that he did not feel as if he was playing well enough to win the tournament.

"It was the most complicated," commented Toni. "He played really badly in the first three rounds. I said to him: 'You won't win playing at this level, you must be more relaxed'. And I told him that winning or losing would change nothing.

"It was important for Roger to try to win another Grand Slam and for us it was crucial that Rafa did not lose as he wouldn't then be the best player on clay.

"Winning Roland Garros is an indication that 2011 is a good year. It'll give him peace of mind for what's ahead. If he loses at Wimbledon, we will always have the French Open."

Nadal won the 2010 tournament without dropping a set but this year it was not until his quarter-final success against Robin Soderling that he came close to hitting top form.

He then secured a straight-sets victory over Britain's Andy Murray in the semi-finals and proved too strong for Federer in the showpiece.

"To win this kind of title is always satisfying," explained Nadal. "But sometimes when you fight a lot to win, when you try your best in every moment to change the situation, it makes the title more special.

"For example, in 2008 I think I played better than ever, but I finished the tournament and I didn't feel that I won Roland Garros because I won in three sets every round."

Nadal rallied from 5-2 down to take the opening set and overcame a fightback from Federer to snatch the second on a tie-break.

Rafael Nadal celebrates after winning his sixth French Open title

A dramatic late surge enabled Federer to pick up the third set but Nadal saved three break points in game one of the fourth before breaking twice en route to a thrilling triumph.

"He was a little bit unlucky in the first set, and after that he came back fantastically well in the second," Nadal continued.

"In the third I had 4-2 but I think he played very, very well from that moment to the beginning of the fourth. When Roger plays like this, the opponent cannot do anything sometimes.

"I just waited for my moment, tried to be there all the time, tried to put him in difficult situations. Saving the 0-40 [in game one of the fourth set] was very important for me. That was a big turning point of the match."

Federer, contesting a Grand Slam final for the first time since the 2010 Australian Open, was pleased with his display but knew things could have turned out much better.

"I don't have huge complaints but obviously there were some missed opportunities, because you'll always have plenty against him on clay. So if you lose, you always look at those," reflected the Swiss.

"I'm the one that's playing with smaller margins, so obviously I'm always going to go through a few more ups and downs, whereas Rafa is content doing the one thing for the entire time.

"So it's always me who's going to dictate play and decide how the outcome is going to be. If I play well, I will most likely win. If I'm not playing so well, that's when he wins.

"But I thought Rafa played well. I think he dug deep to come back in the first set and get himself into the match. And also the second set.

"It was tough all the way through. I thought we played at a very high level and I was pretty happy with the way I played today.

"Overall I'm very happy about the tournament. Obviously you should be disappointed after losing in a Grand Slam final. I feel that a little bit today."

Federer, who ended Novak Djokovic's six-month winning streak to reach the final, said he was "feeling better physically than I have in a long time."

Having played some of his best tennis during the last fortnight, Federer now turns his attention to Wimbledon, where he has lifted the title on six occasions.

"That's obviously the huge priority right now, to win Wimbledon in a few weeks' time," he said. "That's always, for me, the sort of number one goal in the season."

Source -=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/tennis/13663138.stm

CLASSIC RIVALRY=2011 French Open

2011-06-05T00:28:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have given us plenty of historic moments over the years. Relive the matches.

Either Rafa was tired, bored or sad. Normally chatty and amusing, he answered every question patiently but with a flat tone in his voice and an expression that offered no signs of happiness. Players often put themselves in an uncommunicative zone before big matches and at least Nadal agreed to talk to the media which Federer did not. But I sensed this was something more than that. I hope I'm wrong.

It was not that Nadal did not know his facts as he was grilled on Federer's record and whether or not he was surprised at having to face him in the final. "No surprise," he said. "You are more surprised than me, for sure. We know how good Roger is. Roger is having, in my opinion, a good season. He lost only against Novak in Australia, Dubai and Indian Wells; against me in Miami, against me in Madrid. Always there, in semifinals, finals, winning in Doha. So he's fantastic and no surprise for me. Always an honor to play against him, honor to play against the best player in history."

At this rate Nadal will be putting statisticians out of work. And he not only knows the facts — he watches when he can. "Was fantastic match to watch yesterday," he said of Federer's win against Djokovic. "I had a lot of fun watching that match. After that match he must feel very confident, no? I know he is going to play aggressive against me. I have to try to play long, to play consistent all the time and to try to be aggressive when I have the chance."

After two weeks of almost perfect weather, the forecast for Sunday is not good but Nadal is not going to be concerned with that.

"For me I prefer sunshine always. My game is better if the ball is fast and bounces higher," Nadal said. "But, seriously I don't have power to control the weather, so if rain, I'm going to think that is an advantage for me; if sunshiny I'm going to think is advantage for me. I have to think positive all the time."

He may be thinking it but he isn't looking it and we shall have to see what the five time champion produces on court as he tries to equal Bjorn Borg record of six French Open titles.

For Federer, the occasion will be special because the man with a record sixteen Grand Slam titles under his belt has not appeared in a Slam final since January 2010 in Australia. "You just have to accept these things (the losses) and continue to work," he said after his victory over Djokovic. "It's sometimes difficult to play the perfect match. Now I have another opportunity to beat Rafa here and get the French Open title. I've got to play some extraordinarily special tennis. I'm aware of that. But obviously I took a huge step forward today and I hope I can get everything together for the final."

Given their love for the man, there seems little doubt that Federer will have the majority of the crowd behind him. They like style in Paris and has there ever been a more stylish player? He is not a natural extrovert on court like the hugely popular three-time champion Gustavo Kuerten but he just does his thing and the crowd responds. "No I don't do anything special to win their support," he says. "I think people know how much I love Roland Garros, how dear this tournament is to my heart. I think that's enough. But then, we all have our ways of expressing our emotions and it's good in tennis to see that people are different."

Federer and Nadal are very different but they are good friends and great champions and, weather willing, Sunday should see another special day at Roland Garros as these two icons of the game meet for the fourth time in this clay-court final.

Germany, Italy surge on as France are frustrated

2011-06-04T08:17:00.000-07:00

Italy's Giampaolo Pazzini (2nd R) celebrates with teammates after scoring against Estonia. -Reuters Photo

LONDON: Germany broke Austrian hearts with a last-gasp win in Vienna on Friday, extending their perfect start to Euro 2012 qualifying on a night of far more serene progress for Italy and frustration for France.

Germany returned to the scene of their reverse in the Euro 2008 final to dole out their customary defeat to Austria but only just, Mario Gomez scoring his second goal in the dying seconds to make it 2-1 and secure a sixth win from six Group A games.

Italy produced less drama in a fluent 3-0 win over Estonia, goals from Giuseppe Rossi, Antonio Cassano and Giampaolo Pazzini keeping the Group C leaders five points clear of Slovenia, who were similarly untroubled in a 2-0 triumph over Faroe Islands.

The heavyweights from those two sections are well on their way to securing qualification as group winners, as are France despite being held 1-1 by Belarus in Minsk.

France went into the game seeking revenge for a 1-0 defeat in their opening qualifier in Belarus but Eric Abidal, who lifted the Champions League trophy for Barcelona on Saturday, came back to earth by scoring an own goal.

Despite an equaliser that came almost immediately through Florent Malouda, the twice former champions could not complete a comeback victory.

As it is, France remain four points clear of Belarus at the top of Group D. Romania are up to third on eight points thanks to a 3-0 win over Bosnia, Ciprian Marica getting two of the goals.

If any side can be relied upon to rouse themselves for an heroic effort after the domestic season is over it is Germany who made it six successive wins over neighbours Austria on their return to the Ernst Happel Stadium.

The German goals came at the end of each half, with Gomez scrambling the ball in from a corner in the 44th minute and sending in a bullet header for the second after an Arne Friedrich own-goal had looked like giving the Austrians a point.

Germany are almost certain to win the group but second spot, and a chance of reaching the finals in Poland and Ukraine via the playoffs, is wide open.

Belgium held on to second position as they ground out a 1-1 draw with Turkey who are a point behind them in third.

The hosts opened the scoring after four minutes, Marvin Ogunjimi grabbing his fourth goal in six matches, before a Turkey side managed by Guus Hiddink hit back midway through the first half through a Burak Yilmaz tap-in.

ELMANDER DOUBLE

Sweden gave their chances of taking second place in Group E a huge boost as they won 4-1 in Moldova, with two goals from Johan Elmander helping them on their way.

The Dutch lead that group with a perfect 18 points from six matches, with Sweden second on a healthy 12 points from five games.

Lower down the table Finland won 1-0 at San Marino to move up to six points from five games, still in with an outside chance of joining the battle for second.

Croatia went top of Group F with 13 points from six matches, a come-from-behind 2-1 win over Georgia in Split ending a 16-year wait for a victory at the Poljud stadium.

Nikola Kalinic, a local favourite after coming through the ranks at Hajduk Split, sent the crowd into raptures when he turned in Eduardo’s low cross for the winner 12 minutes from time.

Greece, who entertain Malta on Saturday, are second with 11 points from five games while Israel occupy third spot on 10 points from six matches pending their visit to Latvia on Saturday.

A total of nine qualifiers are being played on Saturday, with the Group H clash between second-placed Portugal and leaders Norway among the highlights.

Group G leaders England play Switzerland at Wembley and in a tight Group B leaders Ireland travel to Macedonia while second-placed Russia host Armenia and third-placed Slovakia are at home to Andorra.

Djokovic out of Queen’s, Murray a doubt

2011-06-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

Queen's Club tournament organisers issued a statement saying Djokovic had withdrawn because of patellar tendinitis. -AP Photo

PARIS: World number two Novak Djokovic pulled out of the pre-Wimbledon Queen’s Club tournament in the wake of his epic 7-6 6-3 3-6 7-6 defeat by Roger Federer in the French Open semi-finals on Friday.

“I’ve pulled out from Queen’s and I will take a rest before Wimbledon,” Serbian Djokovic told a news conference ahead of the London grass court tournament, which starts on Monday.

Later Queen’s Club tournament organisers issued a statement saying Djokovic had withdrawn because of patellar tendinitis, which affects the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone.

Earlier on Friday, Briton Andy Murray, who lost to Rafa Nadal in the other Roland Garros semi-final, said he was not sure whether he would take part in the London grasscourt tournament, which starts on Monday.

An ankle injury suffered in Paris means he wants to see how he reacts to coming off anti-inflammatory pills. “I’m not 100 percent sure if I’ll play there,” said the 24-year-old.

World number one Nadal, who faces Federer in the Sunday’s French Open final, four-time Queen’s winner Andy Roddick and 2009 US Open champion Juan Martin Del Potro are all due to take part in the Wimbledon warm-up tournament.

However, Djokovic has been joined on the sidelines by Mardy Fish (abdominal injury), and Richard Gasquet (leg injury).

Nadal and Federer excel to seal dream final

2011-06-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

Reuters

Federer returns the ball to Djokovic. – AP Photo

PARIS: Roger Federer stunned Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal beat Andy Murray as the four musketeers put on swashbuckling displays on Friday, with a classic duel still to come in Sunday’s French Open final.

Five-times winner Nadal will take on old nemesis and 16-times grand slam champion Federer after the Swiss pulled off a 7-6 6-3 3-6 7-6 win over Djokovic to inflict the Serbian’s first loss in 42 matches and stop him becoming world number one.

That honour will stay with Spanish birthday boy Nadal, who swished and swaggered his way into the final with a 6-4 7-5 6-4 victory over fourth seed Murray on a windy but sunny Court Philippe Chatrier.

“Always in these kind of matches, it is small things but I started playing the match fantastically,” Nadal told reporters.

The Briton went down fighting, showing the same tenacious spirit which has carried him through a sprained ankle and some tough matches in the Roland Garros fortnight.

In the end, Nadal, who has lost only once on the Paris clay in singles, was just too good but the high quality of tennis in both semi-finals showed the men’s game is in the rudest health it has ever been, in contrast to the women’s.

China’s Li Na faces defending champion Francesca Schiavone in Saturday’s women’s final but the duo will have to go some way to match the gripping drama that the men provided on Friday.

It was not long before third seed Federer and second seed Djokovic were unleashing stunning winners and duelling in extraordinary rallies.

“The first set was awesome and we were a bit tired for the second and third set,” Federer said after reaching his first grand slam final in more than a year as dusk almost descended.

“It will be a very difficult final.”

Two breaks of serve each in the first set led to a tight tiebreak which the 2009 winner edged 7-5 when his rival, who had not played since Sunday, netted.

BOUNCED RACKET

With the noisy crowd firmly behind Federer, Djokovic bounced his racket off the ground before the Swiss won the second set after surging 3-1 up when a net cord went his way.

Australian Open champion Djokovic was not going to give up lightly and he roared back in the third set, breaking early and putting an extra flourish into his forehand to hit back.

Federer was not be outdone though and nervously sealed the fourth-set tiebreak as Djokovic failed in his quest to win a first French title and beat John McEnroe’s 1984 record of 42 wins since the start of the season.

“I think I had a good first set and I was really unfortunate to lose that set,” Djokovic told a news conference.

“I think I played well. I congratulate him for a great performance. We were part of a really good match.”

Nadal, who made a slow start to his favourite tournament before regaining his form, was made to work for every point as he continued his bid to equal Bjorn Borg’s record of six French Open titles.

The Mallorcan, celebrating his 25th birthday, broke serve for 2-1 in the first set with a passing shot down the line and after Murray missed three break points to hit back straight away, Nadal powered 4-1 ahead.

As women in the packed stands fanned their faces in the heat and superb rallies went on and on, Scot Murray brought the score back to 5-3 but he missed two more break points as Nadal closed out the first set.

The second set had a similar feel but Murray, who kept shouting to himself to keep focus, surrendered his serve for 6-5 having been 5-4 ahead and Nadal triumphed again after more electric tennis.

Nadal used his trademark open-bodied crosscourt forehand to huge effect, somehow finding a split second to come all the way round the ball in the high-powered encounter while Murray used his quickening serve, drop shots and slices exquisitely.

“It’s been by far the best claycourt season for me in terms of the way I’ve actually played on this surface,” Murray said.

“I’ve had decent results before, but I feel like I played a lot better.”

All the pair had in common in the third set was their blue shirts as Nadal ended Murray’s hopes of becoming the first British man in a Roland Garros final since Bunny Austin in 1937.

Farhan moves up in international squash rankings

2011-06-03T09:44:00.000-07:00

With three places up in international rankings, Farhan has moved ahead of Aamir Atlas Khan. -AFP/File photo

KARACHI: Farhan Mehboob leaped three places up and has now become the top ranked Pakistani player in the Professional Squash Association (PSA) international rankings.

With three places up in international rankings, Farhan has moved ahead of Aamir Atlas Khan who was previously the top ranked Pakistani player in international rankings until last month.

Farhan has attained 28th place in this month’s rankings, while Aamir is static at 29th place. However, the upward movement of Farhan is not due to his good performance during the last month.

“Few of my points were not counted due to the fact that I hadn’t played enough matches to make average ranking points. So now my rankings points have been added, which helped improve my ranking,” Farhan Mehboob told PPI.

Meanwhile, Danish Atlas has bettered his rankings by two places and he now occupies 87th spot. Lahore based Yasir Butt leapfrogged 40 places to occupy 93rd place.

The former World No 40 has won PSA recognized tournaments at home, which helped him find a place among elite top-100 players of the world.

Pakistan Scrabble Championship begins tomorrow

2011-06-03T09:41:00.000-07:00

National Scrabble Championship. -AP Photo

KARACHI: Pakistan Scrabble Association’s (PSA) biggest annual tournament, the 23rd Pakistan Scrabble Championship, to be held in fourcategories, gets underway at the Beach Luxury Hotel from June 4 (Saturday).

“The categories represent players between the age group of 11 to 17, 18 to 25, 25-plus and Masters. The first two days of the event will be reserved for the Masters’ competition while the mega event will commence on June 12 with the 11 to 17 age group vying for the honours.

“The following Sunday, June 19, will see the players between the ages of 18 to 25 and 25+ in action,” informed tournament director Tariq Pervez while addressing a press conference at the event venue on Thursday.

PSA has already sent invitations to 250 schools from all over Pakistan to take part in the 23rd Pakistan Scrabble Championship. Entry forms are also available from Liberty Books and the PSA website: www.pakistanscrabble.org

PSA, the first and only registered scrabble club in Pakistan, has been organising numerous championships across Karachi for the past two decades and is now also aiming to spread to other cities of the country with the launch of their Lahore and Islamabad chapters this year.

“In order to encourage the players coming in from all parts of Pakistan, we have also arranged special trophies for the best player of each city,” said the tournament director.

Pakistan will be participating in the World Scrabble Championship (WSC) to be played in Warsaw, Poland, in October and the World Youth Scrabble Championship (WYSC) in Malaysia in December.

“The would-be participants of these events will also be seen in action in the 23rd Pakistan Scrabble Championship,” said Tariq Pervez.

Leicestershire sign Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq

2011-06-03T09:31:00.000-07:00

Abdul Razzaq. -AFP Photo

LONDON: English cricket county Leicestershire have signed Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq as their second overseas player for the forthcoming FL T20 tournament.

The 31-year-old joins Australian Andrew McDonald to complete the overseas contingent after a move for India all-rounder Irfan Pathan fell through.

“I think this shows our ambition,” Leicester’s chief executive Mike Siddall told Cricinfo.

“We had a little bit of money available with Andrew McDonald going to the IPL. We want to do better than last year in the T20 when we lost seven home matches.”

Razzaq with 46 Test caps has played in 262 one-day internationals and 26 Twenty20 internationals. He has a career Twenty20 bowling average of 19.64.

He has previously played for Hampshire, Surrey, Worcestershire & Middlesex counties. Leicestershire open their FL t20 campaign at Northamptonshire on Friday.

F1 revenues set to double by 2016:

2011-06-03T09:26:00.000-07:00

This year's calendar was to have been a record 20 races, and could still be if the postponed Bahrain Grand Prix is reinstated. -AFP Photo

LONDON: Annual revenue from Formula One’s commercial rights is set to double in the next five years to more than $3 billion thanks largely to race hosting fees, according to a report published on Thursday.

The Formula Money report predicted annual revenues for the Formula One Group would rise at a rate of 12.7 percent to reach $3.253 billion by 2016 compared to an estimated $1.587 billion in 2010.

“Revenues are expected to hit $1,789m this year before passing the $2 billion mark for the first time in 2012,” the report added.

The report, a statistical review of Formula One’s finances, uses data from various sources in a sport where official figures are hard to obtain and sponsorship details are kept secret.

Formula One’s commercial rights are owned by private equity firm CVC and managed by the sport’s 80-year-old supremo and dealmaker Bernie Ecclestone.

This year’s calendar was to have been a record 20 races, and could still be if the postponed Bahrain Grand Prix is reinstated.

However, the sport’s future remains uncertain, with U.S. media group News Corp and Italian financial holding Exor, which controls Ferrari through carmaker Fiat, teaming up to explore options on how to run the sport.

Ecclestone has said News Corp has a “close to zero” chance of buying the sport.

RUSSIA AND INDIA

The confidential ‘Concorde Agreement’ between the teams, the governing FIA and commercial rights holder that sets out the commercial basis of the sport and division of revenues also expires at the end of next year.

“One of the key areas of expansion is expected to be race hosting fees, which brought in an estimated $568m in 2010,” said the report, whose publishing partners CNC communications have worked with teams, sponsors and car manufacturers.

“Most race contracts include an annual escalator and upcoming races in new markets such as Russia and India are expected to pay above the average rate.”

India is due to host a grand prix for the first time this year at a circuit near New Delhi, while Russia has a race scheduled for the Black Sea resort of Sochi in 2014, after the Winter Olympics.

Formula Money predicted the highest race hosting fee would rise to more than $100 million by the end of the decade.

It said the increased revenue would also be a boost for the teams, who receive half of the sport’s underlying profits as prize money.

Prize money could also overtake sponsorship as the teams’ biggest source of cash.

“Formula Money predicts that in 2016 the total prize fund will come to $1,575m, with the winner of the constructors’ championship taking home a $222m reward,” added the report.

“This amount is bigger than the entire annual budget of seven of the current 12 teams and compares to the $87m that Red Bull Racing received for winning the championship in 2010.”

The report calculated that total team sponsorship and supplier deals fell to $802m in 2010 but had shown strong growth in 2011 and had already reached $887 million by the start of the season in March.

Bahrain ready to host GP – circuit CEO

2011-06-03T09:21:00.000-07:00

Bahrain had opted to call off the race earlier due to unrest in the country. -Reuters Photo

MANAMA: Bahrain is ready to host the Grand Prix that should have opened the Formula One season but was postponed because of the political turmoil and civil unrest in the Gulf state, organisers insisted on Thursday.

“The Sakhir circuit is ready to welcome the Grand Prix if it is rescheduled for this season,” Bahrain circuit chief executive Sheikh Salman bin Issa al-Khalifa told AFP.

The statement came a day after the Bahraini government lifted a state of emergency and on the eve of a June 3 meeting by world motorsport’s governing body, FIA, which will decide whether the race will go ahead in Bahrain this season.

“We’re ready and the circuit is ready to host this great event and all that we need is a three-month heads-up to be able to complete preparations.”

F1 supremo Bernie Eccle stone said on Tuesday that he was hopeful that the Bahrain leg would be reinstated on the Formula One calendar this year.

A rescheduled Bahrain race could fill the slot currently reserved for the inaugural Indian GP in Delhi from October 28-30, Eccle stone suggested.

“I think the teams are happy. If it’s safe and everything is good then I think the teams will be happy to support it,” Eccle stone told CNN.

Friedel agrees move to Spurs from Aston Villa

2011-06-03T09:12:00.000-07:00

The 40-year-old former United States international will compete with Heurelho Gomes for the number one spot at the north London club. -AP Photo

LONDON: Goalkeeper Brad Friedel has agreed to join Tottenham Hotspur from Aston Villa, the Premier League clubs said on Friday.

The 40-year-old former United States international will compete with Heurelho Gomes for the number one spot at the north London club. Spurs did not disclose details of the length of the deal or transfer fee.

“Brad is a top goalkeeper of real quality who has great experience,” manager Harry Redknapp said on the club website (www.tottenhamhotspur.com).

“It is good to have three such experienced top goalkeepers at the club in Gomes, Carlo (Cudicini) and now Brad and it means we have competition for places particularly with the number of games we will hopefully face next year both domestically and in Europe as well.”

Spurs finished fifth in the Premier League this season, qualifying for the Europa League.

Friedel is one of the league’s most experienced keepers, having made 356 appearances for Blackburn Rovers, even scoring once at Charlton Athletic in February 2004, and also holds the record for most consecutive Premier League appearances with 275.

Villa confirmed the move on their website (www.avfc.co.uk) with chief executive Paul Faulkner saying: “I would like to thank Brad for the terrific contribution he has made at Aston Villa in his three seasons here.”

Gomes was in shaky form towards the end of the season, making several blunders as Spurs failed to repeat last year’s feat of qualifying for Champions League football.

has agreed to join Tottenham Hotspur from Aston Villa, the Premier League clubs said on Friday.

“Brad is a top goalkeeper of real quality who has great experience,” manager Harry Redknapp said on the club website (www.tottenhamhotspur.com).

Spurs finished fifth in the Premier League this season, qualifying for the Europa League.

Gomes was in shaky form towards the end of the season, making several blunders as Spurs failed to repeat last year’s feat of qualifying for Champions League football.

Pakistan reject Afridi request to play for Hampshire

2011-06-03T09:04:00.000-07:00

Afridi's central contract has been suspended by the PCB.—AP/File photo

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has rejected a request from former captain Shahid Afridi for permission to play for English county Hampshire.

A PCB official said on Thursday Afridi had been asked to appear before a disciplinary committee on June 8 to respond to several charges of violating his central contract clauses.

“We have scheduled the hearing as soon as possible. It is now in the hands of the disciplinary committee. If it feels right it can give him clearance to play for Hampshire,” PCB media manager Nadeem Sarwar said.

Afridi, 31, who led Pakistan to the semi-finals of the World Cup this year, announced his retirement from international cricket on Monday in protest against his removal as captain for the recent one-day series against Ireland.

Afridi calls in lawyers for county permission

2011-06-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

Afridi has asked the PCB for permission to play for Hampshire county. -AFP Photo

KARACHI: Dumped captain Shahid Afridi has called in the lawyers in a bid to secure Pakistani permission to play county cricket in England that was denied amid a public slanging match, an official said on Friday.

“We have received a letter from legal firm Mandviwalla and Zafar Associates on behalf of Afridi and as per the rules we forwarded it to the disciplinary committee,” said Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) spokesman Nadeem Sarwar.

Sources close to Afridi said the letter was not a legal notice as such but sought permission for him to play county cricket.

The PCB revoked all No-Objection Certificates issued to Afridi to play abroad, stopping him from playing for Hampshire in the Twenty20 league in England.

The PCB also suspended his central contract and salary, asking Afridi to appear before a three-man disciplinary committee on June 8.

Afridi was punished for violating the players’ code of conduct in announcing his retirement from international cricket and levelling allegations of mistreatment at the PCB.

He had been sacked as one-day captain last month after publicly criticising coach Waqar Younis for allegedly inappropriate meddling in team selection.

Afridi has since confessed to breaching the code of conduct and the letter on Friday outlined his contributions during his 15-year career.

“Afridi is a national hero and has been revered throughout his career, which started as a 16-year-old boy,” said a copy of the letter seen by AFP.

“It was in recognition of his services that Afridi was made captain of the team last year and he guided Pakistan to the World Cup 2011 semi-final,” said the letter.

“Revoking all his NOCs is an attempt to restrain him from financial gains. Afridi should be allowed to play county cricket,” it added.

Afridi has also received political support from Interior Minister Rehman Malik and Sports Minister Shaukatullah Khan promising to help.

Local media reports said President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani have asked the sports ministry to submit an independent report on the affair.

Li brushes Sharapova aside to set up Schiavone final

2011-06-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

A combination picture shows portraits of Francesca Schiavone of Italy (L) and Li Na of China who will play each other in the women's final. -Reuters Photo

PARIS: China’s Li Na carried the hopes of a continent into the French Open final as she blew away Maria Sharapova’s dream of a career grand slam to set up a Roland Garros showdown with holder Francesca Schiavone on Thursday.

Sixth seed Li, bidding to become the first Asian to win a grand slam singles title, punished former world number one Sharapova 6-4 7-5 on a windy Parisian day before French hopes died when fifth seed Schiavone eased past Marion Bartoli with a relatively routine 6-3 6-3 win on court Philippe Chatrier.

If she needs any encouragement she need look no further than the feisty Schiavone who this time last year became an Italian sporting heroine by beating Samantha Stosur to become the first woman from her country to win a grand slam singles title.

“It’s something important for Chinese tennis. They broadcast the match live on Chinese TV,” Li, the Australian Open runner-up, told a news conference.

“I think many children have been able to watch the match and they maybe thinking that one day they’ll be able to do the same, or even better.”

Li, who according to organisers attracted between five and seven million additional viewers in China, is also expected to rely on the China sports minister’s support with Liu Peng planning to travel to Paris for the final.

The momentum Sharapova had built up during the tournament with her dominant power tennis had installed her as many people’s favourite for the one slam to elude her.

However, all that expectation went flat as, with no plan B tucked away in her fancy handbag, she never really recovered from a terrible start despite the never-say-die attitude that has got her out of many jams in the past.

“You obviously try to adjust, especially after you lose the first set. I still feel like I had my share of chances in the first set, and I just didn’t take them,” said Sharapova, whose cause was not helped by 10 double faults.

Li cantered into a 3-0 lead as she snatched her opponent’s serve twice, relying on her powerful forehand to put the normally assertive Sharapova on the back foot.

ON THE ATTACK

With swirls of red clay dust whipping up in the breeze on court Philippe Chatrier, Sharapova did manage to close the gap to 4-3 before the last three games of the set went against serve, Li wrapping up the opening set when Sharapova’s forehand clipped the netcord and bounced wide.

Sharapova broke at the fourth attempt in the opening game of the second set, but Li hung on, saving another break in the fifth game. The Chinese was gifted her next break when Sharapova double-faulted and another service misfire handed Li victory in one hour 48 minutes.

It did not take Schiavone as long to extend her remarkable Roland Garros winning streak to 13 matches.

Bartoli went on the attack from the start, trying to unsettle Schiavone with her trademark crosscourt double-handed shots, but the Italian showed once again her love for the clay.

Schiavone stole Bartoli’s serve to move 5-3 ahead before serving out the set.

The 11th-seeded Bartoli fought back, opening a 2-0 lead in the second set, only for Schiavone, whose spinning forehand did most of the damage, to break back for 2-2.

Bartoli, hoping to become the first French player to win the singles here since Mary Pierce in 2000, then just ran out of steam, conceding another break in the seventh game and bowed out when she netted a forehand.

“I had to run a lot. A lot,” Schiavone told a courtside interviewer. “Of course, experience will be a factor (in the final). But Li has been playing amazing this year, starting in Australia. It’s going to be tough.”

Comeback Player of the Year 2011

2011-06-01T02:24:00.000-07:00

Bartolo Colon's line from last night's game is extraordinary: 9.0 IP; 103 P (71 strikes); 0 ER; 4 H; 6 K; 0 BB.

How many times in the history of the game has a pitcher as old as Bartolo (38) thrown a complete game shutout with as few or fewer pitches? 20 times. Warren Spahn and Bert Blyleven accomplished the feat twice. Maddux, Schilling, and Smoltz are also on the list.

Only twice has a pitcher done all that and had a higher strike ratio than Bartolo's 68.9% from last night: John Smoltz vs. the Padres in 2006 (when he threw 71.8% of his pitches for strikes) and David Wells vs. the Twins in 2003 (75%).

In Smoltz's '06 performance, he too gave up 4 hits, but he also walked two that night. Only Wells in '03, who - like Colon - walked none and struck out 6 but accomplished it all with just 96 pitches and yielded only 3 hits, had a more efficient complete game shutout performance at the ripe old age of 38+ (Wells was 39). Must be something about being fat in pinstripes.

And Colon was absolutely cruising toward a similarly efficient and dominating line two starts ago against the Baltimore Orioles when Girardi pulled him after 8 IP for Mo to go for the save (which he promptly blew, forcing the Yankees to go 15 innings before wrapping up the win). In that game, Colon was even more aggressive in the zone than last night, helped by the Orioles' impatience and a large K-zone by the home plate umpire Dan Bellino: 8.0 IP; 87 P (61 strikes - 70.1%); 0 ER; 3 H; 7 K; 1 BB.

But the truly amazing thing is not these individual performances, but rather Bartolo's general rebirth in 2011.

He appeared in a total of 19 games over 2008 and 2009 and disappeared altogether in 2010. He hasn't thrown 100 innings since 2005, when he won the Cy Young (and threw 222.2 innings). And now, he is among the most effective - not to mention entertaining - pitchers in the game, in part because, unlike many other pitchers who were successful into their late 30s like Maddux, Wells, Moyers, or even his teamate Freddy Garcia (with whom he shares a 3.26 ERA), Bartolo is doing this as a power pitcher who often looks like he could be the ace for virtually any team in the league. Anyone who has watched him this year knows that his fastball in the late innings is at least as hard (ranging from 94-98 mph) and moving just as much it does in the 1st.

Last night, when asked after the game if Colon's performance in 2011 so far reminds him of Colon circa 2002-2005, Jeter said what is obvious to everyone: Colon's pitches are moving substantially more than they did back then. And yet his control is exceptional. He has never completed a season with a K:BB ratio better than 3.65 (also in his '05 Cy Young campaign). His K:BB so far in 2011 is 4.13 - ranking him 7th among all major league starters with at least 65 IP behind just Halladay, Lee, Haren, Price, Hamels, and Shields.

He has never compiled a WHIP better than 1.159 (also 2005). Right now he stands at 1.101 WHIP - 18th among all major league starters.

Now an obvious factor here is stamina - it is virtually impossible for me to imagine that Colon keeps this up for the entire season after taking an entire year off of pitching and having thrown more innings already in 2011 (66.1) than he did in either 2008 or 2009.

But for Yankee fans, the fact that the Yankees - with all their flaws, especially in the starting rotation - sit in first place today has a lot to do with this guy's resurgence, so let's just enjoy it for however long it lasts.

And for anyone else who appreciates the game - and is not unduly influenced by a hatred for all things Yankee - watching a Bartolo Colon start right now is as entertaining and enjoyable as anything in the game.

International squash likely to return to Pakistan

2011-06-01T02:21:00.000-07:00

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Squash Federation on Tuesday said two countries have shown their willingness to play international club championship in Pakistan this year despite the fragile law and order situation in the country.

The senior-vice president of the PSF, AVM Razi Nawab, while briefing the media, said: “Egypt and Kuwait have shown their interest in playing international club league championship and top players from these countries will test their mettle at local courts, giving the much-needed exposure to local players.”

Pakistan has failed to host any major international tournament since the Sri Lankan cricket team was attacked in Lahore in 2009.

He said PSF officials would be visiting England this year and call on president of the Professional Squash Association, Alex Gough, requesting him to open avenues for the federation to host international events.

“Jansher Khan was also being requested by the federation to help it convince international players to play in Pakistan. Jansher’s heroic past record is a great advantage for the PSF,” he maintained.

Over a consideration for playing at the neutral venues mainly because of security fears raised by the foreign players, he said: “There are pros and cons linked with a neutral venue but we will definitely consider playing at neutral venues but it will take some time.”

He added the federation had high hopes from Danish Atlas Khan and Nasir Iqbal.

“Nasir will be featuring in Asian Junior individual championship and we are confident he will create a stir at the international spectrum,” insisted AVM Nawab.

Regarding generation of funds for the PSF, he informed: “We have already generated Rs3.5 million from our own efforts and better marketing strategy, however, we will be looking for long term strategy for generating funds and a model was being worked out by the federation.”

Meanwhile, AVM Nawab distributed prizes among the winners of the C-division club championship.

Richie Ramsay arrives too late for US Open play-off

2011-05-31T06:50:00.000-07:00

Ramsay had assumed the play-off would take place the following morning

Richie Ramsay looks to have missed out on joining fellow Scot Stephen Gallacher in the 2011 US Open after turning up too late for a play-off.

Gallacher made it with a stroke to spare after two rounds of qualifying at Walton Heath in Surrey.

Ramsay finished in a tie with Swede Johan Edfors and Dane Andreas Harto.

But the Scot had already left the course headed for a wedding reception in Belfast and arrived back as Edfors beat Harto to claim the 11th spot.

"I can't believe they played when it was pitch dark," said Ramsay after being told that it was all over and he had been made a reserve for Congressional on 16-19 June.

Edfors won his place just as the disbelieving former US Amateur champion pulled into the car park.

Four hours earlier, having finished his fog-delayed two rounds at four under par, the 27-year-old from Aberdeen had decided to go to Heathrow to try to catch a to Belfast and attend the wedding reception of fellow Tour player Gareth Maybin.

However, not only did he miss the plane but he was then told he could be in a play-off.

The expectations all day were that it would take place on Tuesday morning because of the time lost, but when the last group finished, officials saw the opportunity to get at least one extra hole in.

Edfors and Harto were understandably keen, especially knowing that Ramsay was likely to be absent.

And, with it being switched from a par four to a par three to speed things up, Harto lost when he failed to get up and down from a bunker.

"As I left at 5.30, guys were teeing off the first hole, but they made the decision and I can't do anything about it," said Ramsay.

"It's not up to me to say it's right or wrong, but it's just been an horrific day - just an awful, awful day."

It also proved to be a bad day for compatriot Colin Montgomerie.

Last year's Ryder Cup captain will still be returning to the course where he was runner-up to Ernie Els - but only as a television commentator after rounds of 72 and 73 proved five strokes too many.

"If you don't enter, you can't win - I gave it a go," said Montgomerie, who had high hopes following his seventh place at the BMW PGA Championship on Sunday - his first top 10 for almost three years.

"That's hard work - it was miserable out there."

Still in with a chance at level par with two par-fives to come, the 47-year-old, back up from 462nd in the world to 305th with his efforts in the European Tour's flagship event, failed to birdie either the 14th and 16th and, in between, had one of seven three-putts during the day.

The qualifiers were led by Belgian Nicolas Colsaerts, whose nine-under finish headed Ireland's Shane Lowry and Dutchman Maarten Lafeber by a stroke.

France's Thomas Levet was one further back and English pair David Howell and Robert Rock six under, while their compatriot Robert Dinwiddie, Gallacher, German Marcel Siem and Swede Alex Noren also made it.

Double win for Qureshi as Indo-Pak

2011-05-28T06:38:00.000-07:00

KARACHI: Pakistan’s top tennis player Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and his doubles partner India’s Rohan Bopanna kept up their winning ways with a second round 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 6-4 victory over Argentine Maximo Gonzalez and Japanese Kei Nishikori at Roland Garros on Friday.

The fifth-seeded Indo-Pak Express have progressed to the third round where they will face Andrey Golubev of Kazakisthan and Denis Istomin of Uzbekistan.

Qureshi also won his first round mixed doubles match with his Czech partner Kveta Peschke 7-6 (7-4), 6-2 over Alexandra Dulgheru of Romania and David Marrero of Spain.

Previously, Qureshi and Bopanna defeated Andreas Seppi and Simone Vagnozzi in the first round 6-3, 6-2.

Talking to Dawn.com, Qureshi said he was hopeful that he and Bopanna will keep winning.

“We’re taking it one match at a time and we want to play to our strengths. All the players are excellent but we won’t rule ourselves out from winning the tournament.”

Qureshi’s parents are in Paris and are hoping to see him lift his first Grand Slam trophy.

Peoples Sports Complex in Karachi

2011-05-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

Peoples Sports Complex in Karachi is one of the venues where matches of the PPFL will be played.

KARACHI: A Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) meeting decided that Pakistan’s major football event, the Pakistan Premier Football League (PPFL), will return in the first week of July.

The 2011 edition of the PPFL will kick off in the first week of July and conclude in the last week of December, with a 42-day break in Ramzan. Sixteen teams will take part in the 242-match event which will include newly included teams Muslim FC and Police.

The league will be played in Karachi’s KPT Football Stadium and Peoples Sports Complex, Rawalpindi’s Muncipal Stadium, Lahore’s Wapda Sports Complex Ground, Quetta’s Mali Bagh Ground and PMC Ground.

In the previous edition of the PPFL, Wapda finished as champions while Young Blood FC and Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) were relegated.

Pakistan’s second team beat Afghanistan

2011-05-27T08:36:00.000-07:00

Afghan bowler Mohammad Nabi (2nd L) and teammates succesfully appeal for the dismissal of Pakistan A team Batsman Umar Amin (3rd R) on the second One Day International match Between Pakistan A and Afghanistan at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi on May 27, 2011. Afghanistan is the first foreign cricket squad to tour Pakistan since militants attacked the Sri Lankan team in March 2009, killing eight people and wounding seven Sri Lankan players and their assistant coach. – AFP Photo Dawn News

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s second team beat Afghanistan in their second one-day game by 150 runs on Friday to secure victory in the three-match series.

Once Pakistan “A” scored a mammoth 327-7 in their 50 overs after winning the toss on a flat batting strip at Rawalpindi, they were on course for a big win.

The victory gave the Pakistanis an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the series — the first international contest in the country since terrorist attacks on the Sri Lankan team in Lahore in 2009.

Afghanistan were never on course to chase down the daunting target and were bowled out for 177 in 46.5 overs.

Openers Sharjeel Khan (64) and Babar Azam (63) put the home side on course for a big total with a 107-run stand. Khan, who made 47 in his team’s five-wicket in the first match on Wednesday, hit ten fours and a six.

Umar Amin chipped in with 63 and wicket-keeper Sarfraz Ahmed hit a fiery 26-ball 46 not out, while off-spinner Dawlat Zadran was the pick of Afghanistan bowlers with 3-82.

Left-arm pacemen Sadaf Hussain (4-46) and skipper Sohail Tanvir (2-23) then destroyed the Afghan batting, with only Samiullah Shinwari (61) offering any resistance.

The tourists will now look to the third and final match, to be played in Faisalabad on Sunday, to restore a measure of pride.

Afghanistan is the first international team to tour Pakistan since attacks on the Sri Lankan team in 2009, incidents which led to the suspension of international cricket in the country.

Pakistan’s interior minister Rehman Malik said his government was ready to give security to foreign teams.

“We promised full security for Afghanistan team and this series will give positive signals to other teams and we promise that we will do everything to revive international cricket in Pakistan,” said Rehman at the post-match ceremony.

Scores: Pakistan ‘A’ 327-7 in 50 overs (Sharjeel Khan 64, Umar Amin 63, Babar Azam 63, Sarfraz Ahmed 46 not out; Dawlat Zadran 3-82)

Afghanistan 177 in 46.5 overs (Javed Ahmedi 61; Sadaf Hussain 4-46)

Andy Murray saw off

2011-05-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

PARIS: Andy Murray saw off a 29-year-old local who had only won one match on the main tour and China’s Li Na toiled through under cloudier skies in the French Open first round on Tuesday.

British fourth seed Murray progressed 6-4 6-1 6-3 but was broken twice by Eric Prodon, who had only made three previous appearances in a grand slam, all at Roland Garros.

Women’s sixth seed Li, who like Murray was runner-up in January’s Australian Open, began with an uninspiring 6-3 6-7 6-3 win over Czech Barbora Zahlavova Strycova with the early crowds also somewhat lacklustre after a busy and sunny Monday.

In contrast, Maria Sharapova, wearing striking yellow, stormed past Mirjana Lucic 6-3 6-0 to continue her good form.

Queues at the entrances to the famous venue in western Paris were lengthening as the sun warmed up and anticipation rose for champion Rafa Nadal’s first match against John Isner.

The Spaniard is seeking a sixth title in seven years but Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic, who easily won his first match, is threatening to break his dominance after a stunning unbeaten start to the campaign.

American Isner is better known for his 11-hour epic match against Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon last year but Nadal should wrap up victory in a fraction of the time with the galleries expecting a signal of intent.

Murray did not need to produce his best against the slightly rotund Prodon, who broke in the first set with a drop shot after a series of half-hearted attempts.

The Scot found more rhythm in the second but was broken again in the third set as Prodon’s remarkably laidback but occasionally successful volleys and smashes amused the fans.

There was more laughs when it organisers announced that American Ryan Harrison, who threw his racket into a tree when losing in qualifying last week, had won a lucky loser berth and he will play last year’s runner-up Robin Soderling later.

The feelings on Court Philippe Chatrier were completely different as France’s Virginie Razzano, whose coach and fiance died eight days ago after a brain tumour, lost her match to Jarmila Gajdosova 6-3 6-1 to warm and heartfelt applause.

“I had a lot of emotion and pain,” she said tearfully.

Number two seed Kim Clijsters returns from injury later against Anastasiya Yakimova.

Two more players includes in training camp By PHF

2011-05-22T09:30:00.000-07:00

LAHORE: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has invited two more players to attend the training camp of national senior probables from May 30 at Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium in Islamabad to prepare for different assignments in Europe in June and July.

“On the recommendations of the national selection committee and the team management, the PHF has included the names of two more players Mazhar Abbas (Goalkeeper) and Bilal Qadir (Forward) in the list of camp trainees,” said a spokesman of PHF here on Saturday.

He said previously, in the list of 26 players, there was a typing error and the name of Arslan Qadir was incorrectly mentioned as Faisal Qadir.

Pakistan on top=Tanvir shines with bat and ball to leave

2011-05-22T09:04:00.000-07:00

BASSETERRE, St Kitts: Tanvir Ahmed scored a maiden 50 and then took a wicket in his first over as Pakistan wrested back the initiative from West Indies on the second day of the second test on Saturday.

Resuming on their overnight first innings total of 180 for six, Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 272 with tailender Tanvir hammering 10 fours in a 96-ball 57.

The 32-year-old then struck with the second delivery of the West Indies reply when Lendl Simmons, on the drive, was caught at second slip by Taufeeq Umar for no score.

Although Marlon Samuels, batting at number five, compiled a patient 57, the home side lost wickets at regular intervals before ending the day at 184-8, still 88 runs behind.

West Indies, who lead Pakistan 1-0 in the two-match series, were in control overnight and tightened their grip before lunch as they reduced the visitors to 194-9.

However, Tanvir and Saeed Ajmal (23) shared in a dogged 10th-wicket stand of 78 to guide Pakistan beyond the 250-mark before Tanvir was trapped in front by leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo for a test best of 57.

After the early dismissal of Simmons, teenage test debutant Kraigg Brathwaite (15), Darren Bravo (24) and Ramnaresh Sarwan (20) each established themselves at the crease for West Indies without going on to register a big score.

Samuels was the only batsman to provide sustained resistance before he was removed in the 56th over.

After hitting two sixes and seven fours in 123 balls, Samuels attempted another huge blow over the boundary off Saeed Ajmal’s off-spin but he was caught by a diving Taufeeq Umar at long-off.

Kemar Roach, 10 not out, and Ravi Rampaul, unbeaten on 15, then guided West Indies to the close.

Pakistan, who have never won a series in the Caribbean in six previous visits, lost the opening test in the two-match series.

Ronaldo celebrates record 40-goal haul,

2011-05-22T07:59:00.000-07:00

MADRID: Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo broke the La Liga goal-scoring record with his 39th and 40th league goals of the season as Real Madrid hammered relegated Almeria 8-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday.

Ronaldo poked home from close range on four minutes for his record-breaking goal to overtake the previous best of 38 set by Athletic Bilbao’s Telmo Zarra in 1951 and equalled by Real Madrid’s Mexican legend Hugo Sanchez in 1990.

Ronaldo struck again on 77 minutes with a brilliant run and finish to make it 40 league goals for the season and seal his first ‘Pichichi’ award for the league’s top-scorer.

It caps a fantastic season from the Portuguese sensation although he has just the Kings Cup trophy to show for his two seasons at Madrid.

“I would like to thank my team-mates for helping me get these 40 goals,” said Ronaldo.

“The Pichichi award is for them and the fans.

“The season didn’t go as we wanted but the coach wanted a lot of goals from us to start the next campaign full of hope.

“Scoring 102 goals in a season is difficult and although it is possible to repeat, it will be very difficult.”

Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor, trying to persuade Real to make his loan move from Manchester City permanent, grabbed his first ever Madrid hat-trick and Frenchman Karim Benzema scored a brace as Real crushed hapless Almeria and went past a century of league goals this season.

Champions Barcelona ended their stellar league campaign with a 3-1 win at Malaga in a timely warm-up for next week’s Champions League final against Manchester United.

With the league already wrapped up, Barcelona have their eyes firmly on the Wembley date against Manchester United, and coach Pep Guardiola rested his array of Spanish World Cup stars and Ballon D’Or winner Lionel Messi.

“We are focused on the final and we have everyone available including (Gaby) Milito who will be back,” said Guardiola.

“We will see what Manchester United do and we will work on getting mentally right to try and stop them.”

Malaga took a 31st-minute lead but Barcelona’s collection of youngsters and fringe players came back with a 43rd minute Bojan Krkic penalty equalising before Dutchman Ibrahim Afellay (75) and 20-year-old Marc Bartra (84) scored their first league goals for Barca, who have taken three straight league titles.

In other matches, fallen giants Deportivo La Coruna were relegated from the Spanish top-flight following a 2-0 home loss against Valencia on Saturday.

Zaragoza were third from bottom heading into the final round of games but their 2-1 win at Levante on Saturday lifted them to safety and Depor joined Almeria and Hercules in being relegated.

Depor had spent 20 consecutive seasons in the first division winning the league title in 2000 and reaching the Champions League semi-finals in 2004.

Elsewhere Sevilla and Athletic Bilbao clinched fifth and sixth respectively with wins on Saturday to seal automatic qualification to the Europa League.

Alvaro Negredo took his season’s tally to 20 with a brace as Sevilla won 3-2 at Espanyol, while Bilbao triumphed 2-1 at Racing Santander on Saturday.

A hat-trick from Sergio “Kun” Aguero helped Atletico defeat Real Mallorca in a thrilling 4-3 win but despite having the same number of points as Sevilla and Bilbao, the capital side finish seventh on the head to head rule and must play a qualifier to get into the Europa League.

French Open begins Stosur sails past Benesova

2011-05-22T07:31:00.000-07:00

PARIS: Australia’s Samantha Stosur said on Sunday that returning to the scene of last year’s French Open final defeat had inspired her to go just as deep into the competition again.

The eighth seed, beaten by Italy’s Francesca Schiavone in the 2010 decider, swept past Czech Iveta Benesova 6-2, 6-3 on Court Philippe Chatrier to set up a second-round meeting with Romanian teenager Simona Halep.

Despite being broken in her opening service game, Stosur was rarely troubled in the 68-minute match and said she had high hopes of recapturing the form that took her to her first ever Grand Slam final 12 months ago.

“There weren’t quite as many people this time,” the 27-year-old quipped when asked about the differences between Saturday’s match and last year’s final.

“It was a nice feeling. I obviously thought of last year’s match, but it was nice to get out there again. Of course, if you could play on any court here, you’d want to play on that one.”

Stosur is bidding to reach the last four at Roland Garros for the third summer in a row but said she did not feel under any extra pressure to do so.

“I don’t think I have to necessarily prove anything,” she said.

“Having made the semis (in 2009) and the final, I think that proves that I’ve been able to back it up and that it wasn’t a fluke the first time.

“Of course I’d love to go a little bit further this year but I think it’s more just wanting to achieve that, rather than, ‘I have to do it,’ because of x, y and z.”

Beaten by Russia’s Maria Sharapova in the Rome Masters final earlier this month, Stosur says she is pleased with her current form on clay.

“Overall I’m getting better and better,” she said.

“I hope I’m becoming a better player, a more complete player as each year goes on. This time last year I played some of the best matches of my career and hopefully I can do that again this week.”

Stosur crossed paths with Halep in last year’s tournament, beating her 7-5, 6-1 in the first round.

The 19-year-old Romanian reached the second round in impressive fashion, however, thrashing Russia’s Alla Kudryavtseva 6-2, 6-1, and Stosur believes the world number 67 is likely to prove a more obdurate obstacle this time around.

“I haven’t seen her play since last year so I guess I’ll have to remember what that was like,” said the Brisbane-born star.

“She’s come a long way since that time. I think she was a qualifier last year and now she’s directly in. I think she’s around 60 or so (in the world ranking), so she’s improving. I’ll definitely have to be on my game.”

Pakistan Cancelled Afghan Cricket match

2011-05-19T07:21:00.000-07:00

The Afghan team, arriving in Islamabad on May 24, is being coached by former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif. - AP Photo

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan cricket authorities on Thursday pulled a one-day match against Afghanistan which had been scheduled to take place in the town where US forces shot dead Osama bin Laden.

The match, the third in a series between Afghanistan and Pakistan’s second team, attracted media attention for being hosted in Abbottabad, where US Navy SEALs killed the world’s most-wanted man on May 2.

The fixture has been relocated to Islamabad.

Afghanistan, the first international team to tour Pakistan in more than two years after militants attacked the Sri Lankan team in March 2009, will now play matches in Islamabad on May 25, Rawalpindi on May 27 and Faisalabad on May 29.

“The itinerary… has been revised and now the Abbottabad match will be played in Islamabad on May 25,” said the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

No official reason was given for the decision which was taken at a meeting on Thursday between PCB chairman Ijaz Butt and Interior Minister Rehman Malik.

Sohail Tanveer will lead Pakistan’s ‘A’ team, comprising of young players who have either been left out of the first team or are being nurtured as future talent.

The Afghan team, coached by former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif, will arrive in Islamabad on May 24.

The war-ravaged nation has made rapid strides in international cricket, progressing in 2009 from ICC (International Cricket Council) division one to five, and securing one-day status the same year.

Afghanistan qualified for last year’s World Twenty20 in the West Indies and also won the ICC Inter-Continental Cup in 2010, meant for countries who are not full ICC members.

They beat Pakistan in the semi-final of last year’s Asian Games in China and went on to win a silver medal after losing to Bangladesh in the final.