Cycling authorities ask for two-day extension

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><strong><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ENDJN1BbnVI/U5JjdsHNe9I/AAAAAAAAAr0/snRLSjlacmU/s1600/718367-CyclingILLUSTRATIONANUMHALEEM-1402075376-532-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ENDJN1BbnVI/U5JjdsHNe9I/AAAAAAAAAr0/snRLSjlacmU/s1600/718367-CyclingILLUSTRATIONANUMHALEEM-1402075376-532-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></strong></strong></div> <br /> <br /> <strong><strong>KARACHI: </strong> </strong><br /> <br /> <strong>The Pakistan Cycling Federation (PCF) has asked for a two-day extension in the deadline for submitting the names of two cyclists and a coach for training in South Korea.</strong><br /> <br /> The last day for sending the names was Friday, but the PCF was unable to meet the requirements – set by their Korean counterparts – on time.<br /> <br /> “The Korea Cycling Federation (KCF) wanted to train U17 players for track, and we have good riders for road only,” a top official told <i>The Express Tribune</i>. “Our track ones are not up to the mark to be trained there, but we are attempting to work out an alternative.<br /> <br /> “We have sent an e-mail to the KCF, explaining our dilemma and requesting for an extension in the deadline. In the meantime, we will try to groom our track cyclists to come up to the mark so that we can send them to Korea.”<br /> <br /> The official added that the PCF also wants to send a coach who would be able to understand the presentations and technicalities that will be taught by the foreign country’s federation.<br /> <br /> <strong>Special discount on dope tests</strong><br /> <br /> On another note, the official said that during the Asian Championships, they had a verbal agreement with the Cycling Federation of India for conducting dope tests of Pakistani riders on special discounts.<br /> <br /> “The lab charges around Rs45,000 per test, but we will pay around Rs25,000 per test after the agreement. We will send the samples of our riders whenever we feel it necessary, so that no one can violate rules.”

Cycling authorities ask for two-day extension

KARACHI:   The Pakistan Cycling Federation (PCF) has asked for a two-day extension in the deadline for submitting the names of two ...

Read more »»

England include debutants in Test squad

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><strong><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4js_2i36o70/U5JjIN_qtuI/AAAAAAAAAro/VuKWmFYicp4/s1600/718015-LiamPlunkettAFP-1401998318-273-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4js_2i36o70/U5JjIN_qtuI/AAAAAAAAAro/VuKWmFYicp4/s1600/718015-LiamPlunkettAFP-1401998318-273-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></strong></strong></div> <br /> <strong><strong>LONDON: </strong></strong><br /> <br /> <strong><strong> </strong>Australia-born Sam Robson was in line to make his England debut after the Middlesex opener was named Thursday in the squad to play Sri Lanka in next week’s first Test at Lord’s.</strong><br /> <br /> Robson was one of three uncapped players named by national selector James Whitaker in a 12-man group along with Barbados-born all-rounder Chris Jordan, who impressed during the recent 3-2 ODI series defeat by Sri Lanka, and Moeen Ali, who provides England with their lone spin option.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Yorkshire seamer Liam Plunkett, capable of hitting the 90mph mark, was recalled — having last played Test cricket seven years ago.<br /> <br /> Matt Prior, who has been struggling with an Achilles injury, was passed fit to keep wicket.<br /> And that meant there was no place for Jos Buttler, who made a blistering century for England against Sri Lanka in the fourth ODI or Jonny Bairstow, the man who replaced Prior during England’s 5-0 Ashes series loss in Australia.<br /> <br /> England national selector James Whitaker said, “We believe that this group of emerging talent will be very well complimented by the established core of experienced players that have been selected.”<br /> <br /> Robson is set to open alongside England captain Alastair Cook after Michael Carberry was dropped in what was Peter Moores’s first Test squad since he returned to the job of England coach.<br /> <br /> He impressed on recent England second-string tours of Australia and Sri Lanka, making five hundreds in six matches during those trips while his coach at Middlesex, Angus Fraser, is now a Test selector.<br /> <br /> “The winter form (showed) his (Robson’s) excellence — he made five hundreds, and he showed some great characteristics,” Whitaker told Sky Sports.

England include debutants in Test squad

LONDON:    Australia-born Sam Robson was in line to make his England debut after the Middlesex opener was named Thursday in the squa...

Read more »»

Van Persie injury scare taints Dutch victory

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><strong><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-odlGMVkRNTY/U5JiNzRq0rI/AAAAAAAAArg/jhFRZvjCwP0/s1600/718012-VanpersieAFP-1401996371-457-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-odlGMVkRNTY/U5JiNzRq0rI/AAAAAAAAArg/jhFRZvjCwP0/s1600/718012-VanpersieAFP-1401996371-457-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></strong></strong></div> <br /> <strong><strong>AMSTERDAM: </strong> </strong><br /> <br /> <strong>Robin van Persie handed the Netherlands a fitness worry ahead of the World Cup after the Manchester United striker picked up a groin problem in Wednesday’s 2-0 friendly win over Wales in Amsterdam.</strong><br /> <br /> Van Persie appeared to be in pain and left the pitch at half-time with Dutch coach Louis van Gaal taking no risks over the fitness of his star striker as the 30-year-old was immediately replaced by Jeremain Lens.<br /> <br /> However, Van Gaal, whose 23-man squad fly out to Rio de Janiero on Thursday, is hopeful that the problem will be nothing serious.<br /> <br /> “It looks a slight injury, but it is not for nothing that you go off,” said the coach.<br /> <br /> “He has to wait until the doctor sees him. It was better that you don’t risk a bigger injury by playing him in the second half as it was not the most important match.<br /> <br /> “I hope he is okay for [the opening World Cup game on June 13 against] Spain. His action for the assist for the first goal was fantastic.”<br /> <br /> In another scare, England winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain faces a nervous World Cup wait for scan results after picking up a knee injury in Wednesday’s 2-2 draw with Ecuador.<br /> <br /> Oxlade-Chamberlain limped off in the 63rd minute of the warm-up friendly when he was kicked during a challenge from Carlos Gruezo, who then tumbled on to him.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Italy were stunned by a late goal from minnows Luxembourg on Wednesday as they were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw in Perugia in their final friendly before the World Cup.<br /> <br /> For Friday’s friendlies, Germany host Armenia in their final World Cup warm-up match before flying to Brazil with question marks over the fitness of captain Philipp Lahm and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, and Japan face Zambia in their final tune-up mach.

Van Persie injury scare taints Dutch victory

AMSTERDAM:   Robin van Persie handed the Netherlands a fitness worry ahead of the World Cup after the Manchester United striker pick...

Read more »»

Pumped-up Irfan relishes regained fitness

<div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <b class="location"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCdVVgW8-ww/U45zMQPiPQI/AAAAAAAAAmA/5sUFACSnmKw/s1600/716973-Ledecopy-1401812689-308-640x480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCdVVgW8-ww/U45zMQPiPQI/AAAAAAAAAmA/5sUFACSnmKw/s1600/716973-Ledecopy-1401812689-308-640x480.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div> <b class="location"> </b></div> <div> <b class="location">LAHORE: </b></div> <div> <b class="location"> </b> <b>The world’s tallest cricketer, Mohammad Irfan, said on Tuesday that he could win matches at next year’s World Cup single-handedly, after regaining full fitness from a hip bone injury which had sidelined him for six months.</b><br /> <br /></div> Irfan, who is seven-feet and one-inch tall, was speaking at a training camp in Lahore following his long lay-off.<br /> <br /> “I am feeling completely fit and of course the target is to win the World Cup for Pakistan,” said Irfan, who turns 32 on Friday.<br /> <br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Mohammad-Irfan.jpg" /><br /> <br /> “It’s a big event, every player feels honoured to play it. In Australia, pitches are very bouncy and are suitable for me and obviously I have a height factor and I can do well.<br /> <br /> “If I manage to sustain my fitness 100%, I will be able to win matches single-handedly.”<br /> <br /> The lanky pacer was injured during the T20 series against South Africa in November last year in Dubai, missing Pakistan’s series against Sri Lanka, tour to South Africa, Asia Cup and the World Twenty20.<br /> <br /> Irfan said it was disappointing to miss six months of cricket, but said he would strive to avoid further injuries.<br /> “I am working hard on my fitness and I am ensuring this time that I should go a long way,” he said.<br /> <br /> Irfan broke into the national team in 2010 at the relatively late age of 28 but has so far played just four Tests, 27 ODIs and seven T20s.<br /> <br /> “I know I have to manage my workload and playing Tests is an added pressure, hence I decided to play T20 and one-dayers only. I have to get myself tied up for a longer run this time and will ensure that I don’t get dropped.”<br /> <br /> The selectors are not likely to take a chance on Irfan for their August tour of Sri Lanka, with the all-important series against Australia in the UAE in October-November a more realistic target for a comeback.<br /> <br /> Pakistan then play New Zealand in the UAE, and tour New Zealand for a short limited over series before the World Cup in 2015.<br /> <br /> <b>‘Missing World Twenty20 was devastating’</b><br /> <br /> The left-arm fast-bowler further added that he was devastated after missing out on the back-to-back events of the Asia Cup and the World Twenty20, but his family supported him during the tough phase.<br /> <br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/511.jpg" /><br /> <br /> “I was down after missing out on the World Twenty20 and Asian Cup simultaneously, but my family and friends stood by me during that tough period,” said Irfan.<br /> <br /> “Now I’m working harder than ever to make sure that such injuries don’t happen again and I remain fit for the upcoming World Cup in Australia.”

Pumped-up Irfan relishes regained fitness

LAHORE:    The world’s tallest cricketer, Mohammad Irfan, said on Tuesday that he could win matches at next year’s World Cup sin...

Read more »»

ICC Future Tours Programme to see light in June meeting

<div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <b><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VcUifw5Tz-4/U4x4wLU5HLI/AAAAAAAAAkA/vbOc_Xp1Tp8/s1600/715773-ICCReuters-1401569270-159-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VcUifw5Tz-4/U4x4wLU5HLI/AAAAAAAAAkA/vbOc_Xp1Tp8/s1600/715773-ICCReuters-1401569270-159-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div> </div> <div> <br /> <b>KARACHI: </b><br /> </div> <div> <b>The eager anticipation and speculations of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Member Boards about the Future Tours Programme (FTP) will be put to rest in the second week of June.</b><br /> <br /></div> As the Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI), Cricket Australia (CA) and the English and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) prepare to take over the reins of the ICC, the boards are gearing up to get a glimpse at the eight-year FTP in the June 11-12 meeting.<br /> <br /> “Finalisation of the FTP will take place in the ICC meeting, which will be held on June 11-12,” a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) official told <i>The Express Tribune.</i><br /> <br /> The ‘Big Three’ are all set to take charge of the ICC’s administrative and financial affairs, which will be formally approved in the board’s meeting to be held by the end of June.<br /> <br /> It should be mentioned here that the final picture of the FTP will be presented to the members, but they can only sign it after the draft agreement on the take-over of the ‘Big Three’ is presented for approval.<br /> <br /> The ICC board had earlier authorised drawing up the necessary constitutional amendments, which will be placed before the Full Council at the Annual Conference scheduled to take place in Melbourne at the end of June.<br /> <br /> The PCB has claimed that it had agreed to the ICC revamp only on the condition that it would get bilateral series with all members from 2015-2023.<br /> <br /> There were reports and fears that the ongoing tug-of-war for the PCB chairmanship could derail the process of finalising the FTP, which holds immense importance as it will allow all the boards to determine the direction they will follow for the next eight years, as well as the financial gains they could receive from it.<br /> <br /> “The ICC is preparing a draft agreement for the proposed changes in the governing body to be approved by all members,” added the official. “Binding agreements will be signed after the ICC board meeting in Melbourne by the end of June, and the process will be concluded by September.”

ICC Future Tours Programme to see light in June meeting

KARACHI:  The eager anticipation and speculations of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Member Boards about the Future Tou...

Read more »»

ICC Future Tours Programme to see light in June meeting

<div> <strong> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mZsKO5-zEOw/U4qLF7o2XQI/AAAAAAAAAhc/oNEWVKSs8PQ/s1600/715773-ICCReuters-1401569270-159-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mZsKO5-zEOw/U4qLF7o2XQI/AAAAAAAAAhc/oNEWVKSs8PQ/s1600/715773-ICCReuters-1401569270-159-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> </strong></div> <div> <strong> </strong></div> <div> <strong>KARACHI: </strong></div> <div> <strong> </strong> <strong>The eager anticipation and speculations of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Member Boards about the Future Tours Programme (FTP) will be put to rest in the second week of June.</strong><br /> <br /> </div> As the Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI), Cricket Australia (CA) and the English and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) prepare to take over the reins of the ICC, the boards are gearing up to get a glimpse at the eight-year FTP in the June 11-12 meeting.<br /> <br /> “Finalisation of the FTP will take place in the ICC meeting, which will be held on June 11-12,” a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) official told <em>The Express Tribune.</em><br /> <br /> The ‘Big Three’ are all set to take charge of the ICC’s administrative and financial affairs, which will be formally approved in the board’s meeting to be held by the end of June.<br /> <br /> It should be mentioned here that the final picture of the FTP will be presented to the members, but they can only sign it after the draft agreement on the take-over of the ‘Big Three’ is presented for approval.<br /> The ICC board had earlier authorised drawing up the necessary constitutional amendments, which will be placed before the Full Council at the Annual Conference scheduled to take place in Melbourne at the end of June.<br /> <br /> The PCB has claimed that it had agreed to the ICC revamp only on the condition that it would get bilateral series with all members from 2015-2023.<br /> <br /> There were reports and fears that the ongoing tug-of-war for the PCB chairmanship could derail the process of finalising the FTP, which holds immense importance as it will allow all the boards to determine the direction they will follow for the next eight years, as well as the financial gains they could receive from it.<br /> <br /> “The ICC is preparing a draft agreement for the proposed changes in the governing body to be approved by all members,” added the official. “Binding agreements will be signed after the ICC board meeting in Melbourne by the end of June, and the process will be concluded by September.”

ICC Future Tours Programme to see light in June meeting

    KARACHI:    The eager anticipation and speculations of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Member Boards about the Futu...

Read more »»

Female boxing kicks off on small scale

<div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DAgWZBzMmgo/U4qKuEWzU9I/AAAAAAAAAhY/nWqhKxCzwhY/s1600/715815-Femaleboxing-1401554589-580-160x120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DAgWZBzMmgo/U4qKuEWzU9I/AAAAAAAAAhY/nWqhKxCzwhY/s1600/715815-Femaleboxing-1401554589-580-160x120.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <b><span id="goog_2058879867"></span><span id="goog_2058879868"></span></b></div> <div> <b>KARACHI: </b><br /> </div> <div> <b>Youngsters from the Kalyana Academy became the first female players to lay the foundation for women’s boxing in the country as they competed at the Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF) backed school tournament in Karachi’s District Central on Saturday.</b><br /> <br /></div> The Inter-Classes Kalyana Boxing Tournament for girls and boys was more than just a regular junior event. According to the PBF officials and international referee Ali Akber Shah Qadri, the dream of formally introducing the sport for females after 15 years of planning had finally borne fruit.<br /> <br /> The one-day competition featured 10 girls in five bouts between the ages of 10 to 13 years in weight categories of 22-48kg.<br /> <br /> “We’ve never had female boxing in Pakistan before and this is just the beginning,” Qadri told <i>The Express Tribune.</i><br /> <br /> “I dreamt of this day 15 years ago. Back then, the Islami Nazariya Council had dismissed this notion. I had to bear zealous opposition from hardliners, but today we hope that Pakistan is a different society. Hopefully people will accept female boxers and they can make their name in the sport like the women from other countries have.”<br /> <br /> During the competition, Warda Rafi defeated Ariba Rafi 2-1 while Noor-e-Saba outclassed Arsalah 3-0 and Zainab defeated Soniya 3-0. Fatima Furqan outplayed Samra 3-0 and Khatija overcame Sumera 2-1.<br /> <br /> Mohamad Ali, Arsalan and Abdul Wasay also registered wins in the boys’ category.<br /> <br /> Qadri further stated that moral support from the parents had proved important in helping the PBF and Kalyana Academy to take the first step.<br /> <br /> “The parents wanted to see their daughters take up boxing. If girls can play wrestling, kabaddi, martial arts, then why not boxing?”<br /> <br /> According to Kalyana Academy Boxing Programme Director and Karachi Boxing Association official Syed Ashraf Ali, the girls had shown interest to participate in the event after watching the boys train.<br /> <br /> “When they showed their interest, I told them that they would need at least a month’s training before coming in the ring with our coach Rafiullah. They took up the task.<br /> <br /> “Coming inside the ring is the biggest challenge. It’s about driving the fear away before performing in front of the spectators. I hope other academies and schools in the country can also take inspiration from this event,” said Ali.

Female boxing kicks off on small scale

KARACHI:  Youngsters from the Kalyana Academy became the first female players to lay the foundation for women’s boxing in the co...

Read more »»

ECB, Downton apologise to Pietersen

<div> <strong> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcwPQ3zEqXs/U4qKDqHclLI/AAAAAAAAAhM/xd_Ldpi_oEI/s1600/715768-Pietersen-1401568830-123-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcwPQ3zEqXs/U4qKDqHclLI/AAAAAAAAAhM/xd_Ldpi_oEI/s1600/715768-Pietersen-1401568830-123-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> </strong></div> <div> <strong> </strong></div> <div> <strong>LONDON: </strong></div> <div> <strong> </strong> <strong>The saga of Kevin Pietersen’s extraordinary exit from the international arena took a fresh twist Friday when the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and its managing director, Paul Downton, apologised for criticism of the batsman made by the former England wicketkeeper.</strong><br /> <br /> </div> “On May 22 during an interview on BBC Test Match Special, Paul Downton of the ECB made a series of comments about Kevin Pietersen with which Kevin takes issue, including the comments he made regarding his perception of Kevin’s attitude during the Sydney Test on last winter’s Ashes tour,” said an ECB statement issued late Friday.<br /> <br /> “Some of those comments were made in breach of a settlement agreement between the ECB and Kevin Pietersen which was concluded at the time Kevin’s central contract was terminated earlier this year.<br /> <br /> “Paul Downton and the ECB both apologise to Kevin Pietersen for those comments made that were in breach of the settlement agreement and have confirmed that they will abide by its terms moving forward.”<br /> <br /> Until recently, the ECB’s explanations for effectively ending the international career of Pietersen, England’s leading run-scorer across all formats, had contained only limited detail.

ECB, Downton apologise to Pietersen

    LONDON:    The saga of Kevin Pietersen’s extraordinary exit from the international arena took a fresh twist Friday when the E...

Read more »»

Get ready to Samba: FIFA World Cup 2014

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <b><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iVQW1Jf9fAI/U4qJgqRaRZI/AAAAAAAAAhE/Ofw5fDINvDE/s1600/715882-worldcupfriendlymatchphotoafp-1401568518-748-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iVQW1Jf9fAI/U4qJgqRaRZI/AAAAAAAAAhE/Ofw5fDINvDE/s1600/715882-worldcupfriendlymatchphotoafp-1401568518-748-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div> <br /> <br /> <b>The FIFA World Cup returns to Brazil after 60 years.</b><br /> <br /> The tournament will kick off in Arena de Sao Paulo with hosts Brazil squaring off against Croatia.<br /> <br /> <b>Groups Stages</b><br /> <br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/651.jpg" /><img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/752.jpg" /><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/847.jpg" /><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/941.jpg" /><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/1032.jpg" /><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/1136.jpg" /><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Map.jpg" /><br /> <b>Arena de Sao Paulo</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Arena-de-Sao-Paulo1.jpg" /><br /> <b>Estadio Nacional</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Estadio-Nacional1.jpg" /><br /> <b>Estadio Castelao</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Estadio-Castelao1.jpg" /><br /> <b>Estadio das Dunas</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Estadio-das-Dunas1.jpg" /><br /> <b>Arena Pernambuco</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Arena-Pernambuco1.jpg" /><br /> <b>Arena Fonte Nova</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Arena-Fonte-Nova1.jpg" /><br /> <b>Estadio Mineirao</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Estadio-Mineirao1.jpg" /><br /> <b>Estadio do Maracana</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Estadio-do-Maracana1.jpg" /><br /> <b>Arena da Baixada</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Arena-da-Baixada1.jpg" /><br /> <b>Estadio Beira-Rio</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Estadio-Beira-Rio1.jpg" /><br /> <b>Arena Pantanal</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Arena-Pantanal1.jpg" /><br /> <b>Arena Amazonia</b><br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Arena-Amazonia1.jpg" />

Get ready to Samba: FIFA World Cup 2014

The FIFA World Cup returns to Brazil after 60 years. The tournament will kick off in Arena de Sao Paulo with hosts Brazil squaring of...

Read more »»

PCB hires Grant Luden as trainer and fielding coach

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><strong><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aidCXtIyhbE/U4fakH9KdCI/AAAAAAAAAfY/-KmWY6bmtas/s1600/715221-GranLudenBCB-1401400607-729-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aidCXtIyhbE/U4fakH9KdCI/AAAAAAAAAfY/-KmWY6bmtas/s1600/715221-GranLudenBCB-1401400607-729-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></strong></strong></div> <br /> <strong><strong>KARACHI: </strong> </strong><br /> <br /> <strong>The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has agreed terms with South Africa born Grant Luden and hired him as the trainer and fielding coach of the national team.</strong><br /> <br /> Pakistan’s team management has been undergoing a major revamp after World Twenty20 debacle where Pakistan failed to qualify for semifinals.<br /> <br /> His appointment came after the hiring of head coach Waqar Younis, Spin consultant Mushtaq Ahmed and batting coach Grant Flower.<br /> <br /> <em>The Express Tribune</em> has earlier reported that Luden has become a front runner for fielding coach due to his diverse skills of delivering in more than one field.<br /> <br /> PCB had decided to hire a fielding coach who could perform dual duties of a trainer as well which made Luden, who has worked with Bangladesh team as well, the favourite candidate.<br /> <br /> “Grant Luden has signed up with PCB as training/fielding coach,” PCB chairman Najam Sethi said.

PCB hires Grant Luden as trainer and fielding coach

KARACHI:   The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has agreed terms with South Africa born Grant Luden and hired him as the trainer and fie...

Read more »»

Ponting calls for swift action on corruption

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dpgxEW6jZ6E/U4fZrlF4KNI/AAAAAAAAAfI/YHEq4n53MAc/s1600/714920-rickypontingafp-1401384743-390-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dpgxEW6jZ6E/U4fZrlF4KNI/AAAAAAAAAfI/YHEq4n53MAc/s1600/714920-rickypontingafp-1401384743-390-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br /> <b><b>SYDNEY:</b></b><br /> <br /> <b><b> </b>Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has called for swift action on cricket’s corruption crisis, saying there is nothing worse for the game than the shadow hanging over it.</b><br /> <br /> Ponting said match-fixing and other rumours had circulated for years, and he pleaded with the International Cricket Council’s anti-corruption watchdog and individual boards to act quickly so players and fans could have full faith that what happens on the field was legitimate.<br /> <br /> “We’ve all been aware of a certain amount of corruption in the game for a long time now and there’s always just been a bit of smoke, there hasn’t been much fire around it,” he said.<br /> <br /> “There is nothing worse than having that [corruption] tag around, the worry about the integrity of cricket and that is what every governing body would be fearing and a lot of the players. It takes away a bit from the game they love.”

Ponting calls for swift action on corruption

SYDNEY:   Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has called for swift action on cricket’s corruption crisis, saying there is nothing ...

Read more »»

Hall of fame: Michael Phelps – The Baltimore Bullet

<div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W0Co0f4_aAE/U4fZIrkEAvI/AAAAAAAAAfA/2CbpWOu8Wg0/s1600/714968-phelpsAFP-1401385286-241-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W0Co0f4_aAE/U4fZIrkEAvI/AAAAAAAAAfA/2CbpWOu8Wg0/s1600/714968-phelpsAFP-1401385286-241-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <strong>The 100m butterfly at the 2008 Beijing Olympics is as close as it gets to a photo finish in the chlorinated world. Mark Spitz’s world record for seven Olympic gold medals has been equalled by luck, or some may call it, a stroke of ‘the inevitable’. An angered Milorad Covic was one-hundredth of a second short of the winning touch and many protests and video reviews upheld the decision to hand him the silver medal.</strong><br /> <br /> </div> “It was just too close to see,” admitted a victorious Michael Phelps, the most decorated athlete in the history of the Olympic Games. Phelps was just one win away to break the great Spitz’s record at the 4x100m medley relay, and his team did not let him down. It was customary for Phelps to leave people in awe of his incredible talent, and claiming eight golds justified his nickname, The Baltimore Bullet.<br /> <br /> The American always felt that pushing the boundaries and challenging what was termed ‘impossible’ was his duty. “Many people said that it [breaking Spitz's record] can’t happen. I can assure you, nothing is impossible,” said the six-foot-four machine, giving a huge blow to his critics who believed Phelps’ six golds in the 2004 Olympics was the cap to his achievements.<br /> <br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/1-copy3.jpg" /><br /> <br /> As a seven-year-old, Phelps, who entered the pool after watching his sisters become professional swimmers, was afraid to put his face in the water. But resistance to the fear made him stronger and the first stroke he mastered was the backstroke; how convenient. Young Phelps’ talent was spotted by coach Bob Bowman and soon after, he broke his first record in the Junior Nationals in the 200m butterfly category.<br /> <br /> A career filled with record-breaking appearances in the pool, Phelps was selected to compete for the US in the 2000 Sydney Olympics, making him the youngest ever to make an appearance there. The new kid on the block was getting the attention of swimming greats like Michael Thorpe, who himself felt he needed to push harder in training to compete with Phelps.<br /> <br /> The ‘Half-Man Half-Fish’, as quoted by his Chinese fans, stepped up his act in the 2003 World Championship, winning four golds, two silvers and breaking three world records. For most swimmers, this would have been the highlight of their careers, but for Phelps, it was the beginning of an era that saw him break 39 world records.<br /> <br /> The 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens was where Phelps made his mark. The Baltimore Bullet won six gold and two bronze medals, the second most dominant performance in the history after Spitz’z 1972 showcase in Munich. In the event which many were calling ‘The Race of the Century’, Phelps finished in third place behind Ian Thorpe and Pieter van den Hoogenband in the 200m freestyle. This finish ended his chances of equalling Spitzs’ record, but Phelps quickly shrugged off any signs of disappointment, “How can I be disappointed? I swam in a field with the two fastest freestylers of all time.”<br /> <br /> The 2008 Beijing Olympics, which was considered the greatest individual performance in Olympic history, was where the American truly showcased his greatness by finally eclipsing the record he had his sights on. In what is called ‘The Great Haul of China’, Phelps propelled himself with 11 other remarkable individuals to become the record holder for the most golds (eight) in the event’s history. And to make his mark even brighter, he also broke seven world records during this.<br /> <br /> “I am really proud of him, not just because he won eight golds. Rather, it’s how much he has grown up and matured into a great human being,” said Phelps’ idol, Ian Thorpe, on the American’s success.<br /> <br /> After the competition, the question of whether Phelps was ‘too good to be true’ was raised, and was confronted by the media about taking performance enhancing drugs. A swift response by the Bullet was all it took to keep the critics under him as he cleared the nine tests for the Olympics and volunteered in a project run by the US Anti-Doping Agency.<br /> <br /> At the London Olympics in 2012, Phelps further raised the bar having already been branded as the world’s greatest swimmer, and to many, the world’s greatest Olympian. Four golds and six silvers stretched his Olympic tally to 22 medals, 18 of them being gold.<br /> <br /> No one in history has been as consistent as the young man from Baltimore. Having the expectations of his entire nation and the blessings of former greats, Phelps never caved in to pressure, always keeping himself ahead of the pack. The consistency dented the confidence of his competitors as there is absolutely no one who could even be a worthy challenger.<br /> <br /> While there is always a debate in other sports on who is the greatest ever, there is no question in the world of swimming. Phelps will always be known as the most dominant man to ever to take a dive from the starting block. Now at the age of 28, Phelps has made a comeback from retirement and has set his sights on the 2016 Rio Olympics. And there is no doubt which man the cameras will be focused on as the legend of the Baltimore Bullet looks to begin a new chapter.<br /> <br /> For the complete Hall of Fame series, log on to www.tribune.com.pk/halloffame/ (http://www.tribune.com.

Hall of fame: Michael Phelps – The Baltimore Bullet

The 100m butterfly at the 2008 Beijing Olympics is as close as it gets to a photo finish in the chlorinated world. Mark Spitz’s world ...

Read more »»

United owner Malcolm Glazer dead at 85

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><strong><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2gjCGk6D874/U4fXVvn2TuI/AAAAAAAAAes/HuqKCoa-2Rg/s1600/714919-MalcolmGlazer-1401384524-815-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2gjCGk6D874/U4fXVvn2TuI/AAAAAAAAAes/HuqKCoa-2Rg/s1600/714919-MalcolmGlazer-1401384524-815-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></strong></strong></div> <br /> <br /> <strong><strong>TAMPA:</strong></strong><br /> <br /> <strong><strong> </strong>Malcolm Glazer, the controversial American owner of English Premier League giants Manchester United, died Wednesday. He was 85.</strong><br /> <br /> Glazer – the son of a Lithuanian immigrant who went on to build an diverse business empire – gained a global profile through his ownership of United, one of the world’s biggest and best supported football clubs.<br /> <br /> But he was deeply unpopular with hardcore United fans after loading the club with hundreds of millions of dollars in debt following a 2005 buyout.<br /> <br /> His death was announced on the website of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers American football team, one of his other sports franchises.<br /> <br /> “The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are saddened to announce the passing of Owner/President Malcolm Glazer earlier this morning at the age of 85,” said the statement.

United owner Malcolm Glazer dead at 85

TAMPA:   Malcolm Glazer, the controversial American owner of English Premier League giants Manchester United, died Wednesday. He was ...

Read more »»

Pochettino ‘honoured’ to coach Tottenham

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><strong><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fo1-9JhrLfI/U4aZSlLPYoI/AAAAAAAAAbk/72wvhtD1GmQ/s1600/714509-PochettinoAFP-1401309557-527-160x120.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fo1-9JhrLfI/U4aZSlLPYoI/AAAAAAAAAbk/72wvhtD1GmQ/s1600/714509-PochettinoAFP-1401309557-527-160x120.JPEG" width="200" /></a></strong></strong></div> <br /> <br /> <strong><strong>LONDON: </strong> </strong><br /> <br /> <strong>Tottenham’s new manager Mauricio Pochettino pledged to fulfil the club’s desire for success with style after being hired on a five-year contract on Tuesday.</strong><br /> <br /> Pochettino was tipped to take charge at White Hart Lane following the recent sacking of Tim Sherwood and the Premier League club confirmed they have persuaded the former Argentina defender, who had earned widespread praise during his time as Southampton boss, to quit his post at St Mary’s and move to north London.<br /> <br /> Pochettino, who will work under Spurs director of football Franco Baldini, admitted he was delighted to be given the opportunity to manage a club of Tottenham’s stature.<br /> <br /> <img alt="" src="http://i1.tribune.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Mauricio-Pochettino.jpg" /><br /> The 42-year-old, Tottenham’s 10th permanent manager in the last 13 years, promised to stay faithful to the club’s philosophy of attacking play, while also achieving their desire to play in the Champions League on a regular basis.<br /> <br /> “This is a club with tremendous history and prestige and I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to be its head coach,” said Pochettino.<br /> <br /> “There is an abundance of top-class talent at the club and I am looking forward to starting work with the squad. Tottenham have a huge following across the world and I have great admiration for the passion the fans show for this team.<br /> <br /> “We are determined to give the supporters the kind of attacking football and success that we are all looking to achieve.”<br /> <br /> Having arrived at Southampton in January 2013 as a relative unknown, former Espanyol boss Pochettino’s possession-based, attacking game and focus on home-grown talent has impressed, as have his on-field results.<br /> <br /> Saints managed their best-ever Premier League finish of eighth last season, while young talents like Luke Shaw, Adam Lallana, Jay Rodriguez, Sam Gallagher and Calum Chambers all thrived under the Argentine’s leadership.

Pochettino ‘honoured’ to coach Tottenham

LONDON:   Tottenham’s new manager Mauricio Pochettino pledged to fulfil the club’s desire for success with style after being hired ...

Read more »»

Saving Earth: Brazil pledges ‘green’ World Cup

<strong><strong>  </strong></strong><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><strong><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sk7ATi1lWdM/U4aYyWfEeKI/AAAAAAAAAbc/vUtjC1LCr6M/s1600/714511-environment-1401309427-836-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sk7ATi1lWdM/U4aYyWfEeKI/AAAAAAAAAbc/vUtjC1LCr6M/s1600/714511-environment-1401309427-836-160x120.jpg" width="200" /></a></strong></strong></div> <strong><strong><br /></strong></strong><br /> <strong><strong>BRASILIA: </strong> </strong><br /> <br /> <strong>Brazil announced a package of pollution-cutting measures aimed at making this year’s World Cup more environmentally friendly, ranging from an emissions-trading scheme to a ‘green passport’ smart-phone application.</strong><br /> <br /> “We want to score green goals,” said Environment Minister Izabella Teixeira. The World Cup and other major sports events generally leave giant carbon footprints. The government has launched a program to offset that pollution by asking companies to give carbon credits in exchange for the right to advertise themselves as official ‘green seal’ World Cup sponsors.<br /> <br /> “The Cup will open having offset 100% of its direct emissions,” said Teixeira.<br /> <br /> The government also launched a project called ‘green passport’ to encourage football fans to practice environmentally sustainable tourism.<br /> <br /> Anticipating that many will want to explore the country between matches, the project proposes environmentally friendly travel itineraries from each host city, complete with a cell phone app.

Saving Earth: Brazil pledges ‘green’ World Cup

  BRASILIA:   Brazil announced a package of pollution-cutting measures aimed at making this year’s World Cup more environmentally fr...

Read more »»

Manchester United owner Malcolm Glazer dead at 85

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HIw1eaC_jng/U4aYOI9Y4AI/AAAAAAAAAbU/B7zqzr-_fGI/s1600/714790-Malcom-1401321144-409-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HIw1eaC_jng/U4aYOI9Y4AI/AAAAAAAAAbU/B7zqzr-_fGI/s1600/714790-Malcom-1401321144-409-160x120.jpg" width="200" /></a></strong></div> <br /> <strong>Malcolm Glazer, the controversial American owner of English Premier League giants Manchester United, died Wednesday. He was 85.</strong><br /> <br /> Glazer gained a global profile through his ownership of United, one of the biggest and best supported football clubs in the world.<br /> <br /> But he was deeply unpopular with hardcore United fans after loading the club with hundreds of millions of dollars in debt following a 2005 buyout.<br /> <br /> His death was announced on the website of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers American football team, one of his other sports franchises.<br /> <br /> “The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are saddened to announce the passing of Owner/President Malcolm Glazer earlier this morning at the age of 85,” the statement said.<br /> <br /> “A dynamic business leader, Glazer helped mold the Buccaneers into a model franchise and one respected league-wide.”<br /> <br /> Under Glazer’s stewardship of the Buccaneers, the NFL team enjoyed its first Super Bowl success in 2002.<br /> Shares of Manchester United slipped sharply after Glazer’s death was announced on the New York Stock Exchange late Wednesday.<br /> <br /> Glazer’s death is not expected to have any bearing on the ownership of the club, with his family retaining a 90 percent holding in United.<br /> <br /> His sons Joel and Avram Glazer continue to serve as co-chairmen of the club. Another son, Bryan, remains on the United board.<br /> <br /> “The thoughts of everyone at Manchester United are with his family tonight,” the Premier League club said Wednesday.<br /> <br /> Glazer’s 2005 takeover of United in a leveraged $1.2 billion buyout triggered widespread protests amongst the club’s fans.<br /> <br /> Although Glazer’s reign coincided with a glut of silverware — including five Premier League crowns and the 2008 Champions League title — he remained a hate figure for many supporters.<br /> <br /> Fans have complained that Glazer’s ownership model has forced United to spend millions of pounds servicing the club’s debt — money which could have been spent in strengthening United’s playing staff.<br /> <br /> Nevertheless, Glazer found a consistent and vocal ally in Manchester United’s legendary former manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who insisted the American had been “great” for the club.<br /> <br /> “I am comfortable with the Glazer situation. They have been great,” Ferguson said in 2012, a year before he announced his retirement.<br /> <br /> “They have always backed me whenever I have asked them. I have never faced any opposition.”

Manchester United owner Malcolm Glazer dead at 85

Malcolm Glazer, the controversial American owner of English Premier League giants Manchester United, died Wednesday. He was 85. Glaze...

Read more »»

Don’t write us off yet, says Sebastian Vettel

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n1K4l4WUVKk/U4aXuEJMm2I/AAAAAAAAAbQ/B3wjDoGGxAI/s1600/714508-Fcopy-1401295608-516-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n1K4l4WUVKk/U4aXuEJMm2I/AAAAAAAAAbQ/B3wjDoGGxAI/s1600/714508-Fcopy-1401295608-516-160x120.jpg" width="200" /></a></strong></div> <br /> <br /> <strong>Quadruple world champion Sebastian Vettel believes Red Bull could still capture a title in 2014, despite failing to beat current leaders Mercedes in any race so far this season, according to ESPN.</strong><br /> <br /> Vettel is 77 points adrift from Nico Rosberg after finishing sixth in the drivers’ standings after his early retirement in the recent Monaco Grand Prix. Meanwhile, Red Bull are a considerable 151 points behind Mercedes in the constructors’ championship.<br /> <br /> “Mathematically, we are right in there,” said Vettel. “We are looking at the situation race-by-race. Of course it did not go well recently, but we are looking forward to the next races.“For sure we made progress and this proves we are on the right path. We won’t be favourites in the near future, but over a race distance, anything can happen. There are always reasons for setbacks, and I do not believe in bad luck. We just have to sort the problems out.”<br /> <br /> Vettel also rubbished rumours circulating in some media outlets about his possible move away from Red Bull following his struggle to adapt to the RB10.<br /> <br /> “I’m fascinated that journalists react so quickly. It is not long ago that Red Bull had some very successful years. Now we have had six races and we are not so successful and there are already discussions about my future.<br /> <br /> “We are still the second force in Formula One, ahead of Ferrari, so it could be worse.”

Don’t write us off yet, says Sebastian Vettel

Quadruple world champion Sebastian Vettel believes Red Bull could still capture a title in 2014, despite failing to beat current lead...

Read more »»

Real Madrid beat Atletico to lift record 10th Champions League title

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><strong><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cnlvA03a4Fo/U4FuomyXrFI/AAAAAAAAAZk/EOLN3KZLCo8/s1600/712851-realmadrid-1400970310-282-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cnlvA03a4Fo/U4FuomyXrFI/AAAAAAAAAZk/EOLN3KZLCo8/s1600/712851-realmadrid-1400970310-282-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></strong></strong></div> <br /> <strong><strong>LISBON: </strong> </strong><br /> <br /> <strong>Real Madrid won the Champions League for the 10th time thanks to extra time goals from Gareth Bale, Marcelo and Cristiano Ronaldo as they came from behind in dramatic circumstances to beat Atletico Madrid 4-1 in Lisbon on Saturday.</strong><br /> <br /> Atletico seemed set for their first ever European crown as they led deep into stoppage time thanks to Diego Godin’s first-half header, but Sergio Ramos took the game into extra time with a towering header in the 93rd minute.<br /> <br /> And for the second time this season having already scored the winner to hand Real the Copa del Rey against Barcelona last month, Bale scored the crucial goal when he headed into an empty net after Thibaut Courtois had parried Angel di Maria’s effort.<br /> <br /> With Atletico committed to finding an equaliser, Real were able to counter-attack at will and Marcelo killed the game off when his low shot had too much power for Courtois before Ronaldo sealed his return to Lisbon with a fourth from the penalty spot.<br /> <br /> “It is the most important goal I have scored,” said Ramos.<br /> <br /> “It is an incredible feeling. We kept fighting until the end for the fans. It is not my goal, but one for all Madrid fans, my family and all those that have supported us until the end. We deserved it after so many years.”<br /> <br /> Real coach Carlo Ancelotti, meanwhile, becomes the first man since Bob Paisley to win the competition three times.<br /> <br /> “We have done it with a lot of suffering and difficulty, but in the end we have done it and we deserved it,” said the Italian.<br /> <br /> “I am very happy for this because we have won a trophy that for Real Madrid is very important. We have worked hard all year for this.”<br /> <br /> Atletico captain Gabi admitted that his side had been well-beaten in extra time after suffering the body blow of Ramos’ equaliser.<br /> <br /> “They managed to equalise and that is football,” he told Television Espanola.<br /> <br /> “After the extra time they were deserving winners. We have competed for a year like animals and we have gone as far as we could.”<br /> <br /> Atletico’s top scorer Diego Costa had been surprisingly included in Diego Simeone’s starting line-up despite suffering a hamstring injury just seven days ago as Atletico clinched the La Liga title against Barcelona.<br /> <br /> However, the Brazilian-born striker lasted just nine minutes as he hobbled off to be replaced by Adrian Lopez.<br /> <br /> Bale had the first clear chance of the match when the Welshman pounced on Tiago’s errant pass in midfield and scampered forward into the area but side-footed wide on his favoured left foot.<br /> <br /> Three minutes later it was Atletico who took the lead as Juanfran headed a cleared corner back into the box and Godin took advantage of indecision by Iker Casillas to loop the ball over the Spanish captain and just over the line.<br /> <br /> Ronaldo had a couple of half-chances to level at the start of the second-half as Courtois awkwardly tipped another free-kick from distance over before the Portuguese captain headed just wide from a corner.<br /> <br /> As Real took more risks to find the equaliser, though, Atletico were also becoming more dangerous on the break and Adrian was unfortunate to see his goalbound effort deflected just wide by Sami Khedira.<br /> <br /> Bale wasted another good opening as he sprinted onto Ronaldo’s pass, but chose the wrong option in trying to squeeze the ball home at the near post and dumped the ball into the side netting.<br /> <br /> Just when Atletico thought they had the trophy won, though, Real got their reward as Ramos rose to power Luka Modric’s corner past the helpless Courtois.<br /> <br /> Atletico’s tiredness then showed in the second period of extra time as Real had too much pace and power and finally went in front 10 minutes from the end when Di Maria burst into the area and despite his effort being saved by Courtois, Bale was on hand to head in at the back post.<br /> <br /> Courtois also got a hand to Marcelo’s low drive eight minutes later, but the Belgian international couldn’t keep it out.<br /> <br /> And Ronaldo got the goal he craved back in his homeland when he was clipped by Gabi moments later and got back up to slam the resulting penalty home.

Real Madrid beat Atletico to lift record 10th Champions League title

LISBON:   Real Madrid won the Champions League for the 10th time thanks to extra time goals from Gareth Bale, Marcelo and Cristiano ...

Read more »»

Junior Hockey Championship: Hussain’s brace gives national title to NBP

<div> <strong> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBYVb8Pc2tE/U4Ft4Y7USmI/AAAAAAAAAZY/_euV9M8YVU8/s1600/712705-HockeyREUTERS-1400967388-713-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBYVb8Pc2tE/U4Ft4Y7USmI/AAAAAAAAAZY/_euV9M8YVU8/s1600/712705-HockeyREUTERS-1400967388-713-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> </strong></div> <div> <strong> </strong></div> <div> <strong>KARACHI: </strong></div> <div> <strong> </strong> <strong>NBP captured the 33rd National Junior Hockey Championship title on Saturday, defeating Wapda 2-1 at the Hockey Club of Pakistan Stadium in Karachi.</strong><br /> <br /> </div> Mubashir Hussain scored the opening goal in the first minute of the match as NBP led 1-0 at the interval. Wapda then contained their opponents for the better part of the second half, but Hussain struck another goal in the 60th minute on a penalty corner.<br /> <br /> Wapda’s Mohammad Ahad scored a consolation goal just a few seconds after to reduce the margin, but the team failed to equalise and gave away the title to NBP.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Punjab took the bronze medal in the championship as they defeated PIA 3-2 in the third place playoff. PIA took the lead with Abu Bakr’s goal in the 17th minute of the match, but Punjab hit back with Muhammad Asif’s goal in the 37th. Their opponents then replied with another goal through Amir Ali two minutes later to lead 2-0 at half-time.<br /> <br /> However, Punjab prevailed in the second half as Qasim Ahmed equalised in the 56th minute and Mohsin Sabir sealed the win four minutes later with his field goal.

Junior Hockey Championship: Hussain’s brace gives national title to NBP

    KARACHI:    NBP captured the 33rd National Junior Hockey Championship title on Saturday, defeating Wapda 2-1 at the Hockey Cl...

Read more »»

Corruption inquiry nearing end, says ICC chief

<div> <strong> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S748AYB4sk0/U4FtdVS3rPI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/gEn5QxWHdTc/s1600/712707-ICCReuters-1400967829-410-160x120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S748AYB4sk0/U4FtdVS3rPI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/gEn5QxWHdTc/s1600/712707-ICCReuters-1400967829-410-160x120.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> </strong></div> <div> <strong> </strong></div> <div> <strong> WELLINGTON: </strong></div> <div> <strong> </strong> <strong>An inquiry into corruption that has rocked world cricket is entering its final stages, officials said on Saturday, as former New Zealand international Chris Cairns was to fly to London to be interviewed by police.</strong><br /> <br /> </div> Cairns has vehemently denied any involvement in corruption but believes he is the person alleged to be ‘Player X’ — the match-fixing ringleader mentioned by former team-mates Lou Vincent and Brendon McCullum.<br /> <br /> International Cricket Council (ICC) chief executive Dave Richardson said he believed investigators were ‘not far away’ from interviewing Cairns and the inquiry would be wrapped up in a matter of weeks.<br /> <br /> “We are at the end of the investigation,” Richardson told Radio Sport. “It is close to being finalised and I’m sure Chris Cairns will be spoken to and given an opportunity to put his side of the story.”<br /> <br /> Cairns’ lawyer confirmed to the New Zealand Herald that he was heading to England on Saturday to be interviewed.<br /> <br /> “Chris Cairns is meeting with the Met police to conclude the interview he started and is also hoping to meet with the ICC anti-corruption unit,” said Cairns’ lawyer Aaron Lloyd.<br /> <br /> According to a series of leaked documents in recent weeks, Vincent provided a ‘treasure trove’ of information about different offers to fix matches.<br /> <br /> When details of Vincent´s testimony first emerged, the ICC suggested it could take more than a year before the investigation was completed, but Richardson has now indicated ‘a matter of weeks’ was realistic.<br /> <br /> “Although part of it does involve a police investigation in the UK, which I can´t really vouch for as to when that will be finalised,” added Richardson.“But certainly from our perspective the investigations are close to finality and hopefully we should be making announcements pretty soon.”<br /> <br /> <strong>No probe shut down, says ACSU chief</strong><br /> <br /> The Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) of the ICC has categorically denied that the investigation was ‘shut down’ into the 2011 CB40 match between Kent and Sussex in Hove by the ruling body, according to ESPNcricinfo.<br /> <br /> ThE match saw New Zealand’s Lou Vincent and Pakistan-born first-class cricketer Naveed Arif being involved in alleged match-fixing and then being charged by England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).<br /> “That was not at all the case,” said Ronnie Flanagan, head of the ACSU.<br /> <br /> “There was some correspondence between the ICC and Sussex and the ECB back then. As far as Sussex were concerned, they came to the conclusion at that early stage that this was a clean match.<br /> <br /> “In fact it was through the ACSU’s work, including work with Lou Vincent, we came to the conclusion that this match had to be re-examined and we immediately passed on the intelligence to the ECB.”

Corruption inquiry nearing end, says ICC chief

     WELLINGTON:    An inquiry into corruption that has rocked world cricket is entering its final stages, officials said on Satu...

Read more »»