Claxton hunting first major medal

British hurdler Sarah Claxton is confident she can win her first major medal at next month's European Indoor Championships

The 25-year-old has already smashed the British record over 60m hurdles twice this season, setting a new mark of 7.96 secon
as I keep up my training but not do too much I think there is a chance of a medal." Claxton has won the national 60m hurdles
stage. Now, the Scotland-born athlete owns the equal fifth-fastest time in the world this year. And at last week's Birmingham

For the first time, Claxton has only been preparing for a campaign over the hurdles - which could explain her leap in form. In p
London she has re-focused her attentions. Claxton will see if her new training regime pays dividends at the European Indoors

O'Sullivan could run in Worlds

Sonia O'Sullivan has indicated that she would like to participate in next month's World Cross Country Championships in St Etie

Athletics Ireland have hinted that the 35-year-old Cobh runner may be included in the official line-up for the event in France o
officially announced this week. O'Sullivan is at present preparing for the London marathon on 17 April. The participation of O
three years agio. The first three at Santry last Saturday, Jolene Byrne, Maria McCambridge and Fionnualla Britton, are automa
Bupa Great Ireland Run on 9 April in Dublin.

Greene sets sights on world title

Maurice Greene aims to wipe out the pain of losing his Olympic 100m title in Athens by winning a fourth World Championship

He had to settle for bronze in Greece behind fellow American Justin Gatlin and Francis Obikwelu of Portugal. "It really hurts to
Birmingham on Friday. "It's never going to happen again. My goal - I'm going to win the worlds." Greene crossed the line just
But Greene believes he lost the race and his title in the semi-finals. "In my semi-final race, I should have won the race but I wa
was there. "I believe that's what put me in lane seven in the final and, while I was in lane seven, I couldn't feel anything in the

"I just felt like I was running all alone. "I believe if I was in the middle of the race I would have been able to react to people th
not catch Britain's Mark Lewis-Francis on the final leg. The Kansas star is set to go head-to-head with Lewis-Francis again at Fr
holds the world record of 6.39 seconds. He then has another indoor meeting in France before resuming training for the outdo
again prove the biggest threat to his ambitions in Finland. But he also admits he faces more than one rival for the world crow
(Boldon) in the young crowd," Greene said. "Now you've got about five or six young guys coming up at the same time."
IAAF launches fight against drugs

The IAAF - athletics' world governing body - has met anti-doping officials, coaches and athletes to co-ordinate the fight agains

Two task forces have been set up to examine doping and nutrition issues. It was also agreed that a programme to "de-mystify
it was more to have a forum of the stakeholders allowing them to express themselves," said an IAAF spokesman. "Getting eve
Monaco, including IAAF chief Lamine Diack and Namibian athlete Frankie Fredericks, now a member of the Athletes' Commis
to sit together and discuss what more we can do in the fight against doping," said Diack. "We are the leading Federation in th
Council, at its April meeting in Qatar.

Dibaba breaks 5,000m world record

Ethiopia's Tirunesh Dibaba set a new world record in winning the women's 5,000m at the Boston Indoor Games.

Dibaba won in 14 minutes 32.93 seconds to erase the previous world indoor mark of 14:39.29 set by another Ethiopian, Berh
miscounted his laps in the men's 3,000m and staged his sprint finish a lap too soon. Ireland's Alistair Cragg won in 7:39.89 as
on the pace. The plan was to go with 500m to go no matter what, but when Bekele made the mistake that was it. The race wa
winning performances, too. Kluft took the long jump at 6.63m, while Ceplak easily won the women's 800m in 2:01.52.

Isinbayeva claims new world best

Pole vaulter Yelena Isinbayeva broke her own indoor world record by clearing 4.89 metres in Lievin on Saturday.

It was the Russian's 12th world record of her career and came just a few days after she cleared 4.88m at the Norwich Union G
but failed to clear that height. In the men's 60m, former Olympic 100m champion Maurice Greene could only finish second to
won in Birmingham last week. "I ran my race perfectly," said Scott, who won in 6.46secs, his best time indoors. "I am happy e

O'Sullivan commits to Dublin race

Sonia O'Sullivan will seek to regain her title at the Bupa Great Ireland Run on 9 April in Dublin.

The 35-year-old was beaten into fourth at last year's event, having won it a year earlier. "I understand she's had a solid winte
Mark Carroll, Irish record holder at 3km, 5km and 10km, will make his debut in the mass participation 10km race. Carroll has s
leading American Alan Webb in Boston. Carroll will be facing stiff competition from Australian Craig Mottram, winner in Dubli
Hansen 'delays return until 2006'

British triple jumper Ashia Hansen has ruled out a comeback this year after a setback in her recovery from a bad knee injury,

Hansen, the Commonwealth and European champion, has been sidelined since the European Cup in Poland in June 2004. It w
heal. Her coach Aston Moore told the Times: "We're not looking at any sooner than 2006, not as a triple jumper." Moore said
of her being involved again in her specialist event. "There was a problem with the wound healing and it set back her rehabilit
for her to get fit as an athlete - then we will start looking at sprinting and the long jump as an introduction back to the compe
unclear if that will be in time for the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne next March, when she will be 34. "It's been a frust

Off-colour Gardener storms to win

Britain's Jason Gardener shook off an upset stomach to win the 60m at Sunday's Leipzig International meeting.

Gardener clocked 6.56 seconds to equal the meeting record and finished well ahead of Germany's Marc Blume, who crossed
and I was vomiting. I almost went home. "I felt a little better Sunday morning but decided I'd only run in the main race. Then
Athens Olympics, will now turn his attention to next weekend's Norwich Union European Indoor trials in Sheffield.

"Given I am still off-colour I know there is plenty more in the tank and I expect to get faster in the next few weeks," he said. "
Ian Mackie was also in action in Leipzig. He stepped down from his favoured 400m to 200m to finish third in 21.72 secs. Germ
21.58 secs. There were plenty of other senior British athletes showing their indoor form over the weekend. Promising 60m hu

clocked a new UK record of 7.98 seconds at a meeting in Norway. The 24-year-old reached the mark in her heat but had to se

, who broke onto the international scene at the Olympic Games last season, set an indoor personal best of 16.50m in the trip
good enough to qualify for the European Indoor Championships. At the same meeting,

finished third in 7.27 seconds in a high-class women's 60m. The event was won by European medal favourite Christine Arron
Olympic bronze heptathlon medallist

made a low-key return to action at an indoor meeting in Birmingham. The 28-year-old cleared 1.76m to win the high jump an
Collins to compete in Birmingham

World and Commonwealth 100m champion Kim Collins will compete in the 60m at the Norwich Union Grand Prix in Birmingh

The St Kitts and Nevis star joins British Olympic relay gold medallists Jason Gardener and Mark Lewis-Francis. Sydney Olympic
medallist Francis Obikwelu will also take part. Collins ran in Birmingham at the 2003 World Indoor Championships. "I'm lookin
the NIA when I won my 60m world indoor silver medal in 2003 and it will be really exciting to return to this venue." The world
and Mark Lewis-Francis are Olympic gold medallists now and I'm sure they'll be aiming to win in front of their home supporte
one of the most exciting races of the evening." Collins was sixth in the Olympic final in Athens but is hoping for a better result
my 100m world title in Helsinki in August. Before then I want to perform well over 60m indoors and start my year in winning

Radcliffe yet to answer GB call

Paula Radcliffe has been granted extra time to decide whether to compete in the World Cross-Country Championships.

The 31-year-old is concerned the event, which starts on 19 March in France, could upset her preparations for the London Ma
Hyde Peters of UK Athletics. "But she is working out whether she can accommodate the worlds without too much compromis
nominations. British team member Hayley Yelling said the team would understand if Radcliffe opted out of the event. "It wou
remember that athletics is basically an individual sport and anything achieved for the team is a bonus. "She is not messing us
but missed last year's event because of injury. In her absence, the GB team won bronze in Brussels.

Edwards tips Idowu for Euro gold

World outdoor triple jump record holder and BBC pundit Jonathan Edwards believes Phillips Idowu can take gold at the Europ

Idowu landed 17.30m at the British trials in Sheffield last month to lead the world triple jump rankings. "It's all down to him, b
undoubted but all his best performances seem to happen in domestic meetings."

Idowu made his breakthrough five years ago but so far has only a Commonwealth silver medal to his name. Edwards himself
represent a chance for the 26-year-old to prove his credentials as Britain's top triple jumper. "He has to start producing at int
consistent. I'm sure a victory in Madrid will build up his confidence and self-belief that he can be best in the world." The quali
Saturday. Olympic champion Christian Olsson will not be taking part as he is out for the entire indoor season with an ankle inj
Kenya lift Chepkemei's suspension

Kenya's athletics body has reversed a ban on marathon runner Susan Chepkemei after she made an official apology.

Athletics Kenya (AK) had suspended the two-time London Marathon runner-up for failing to turn up to a cross-country team t
said AK chief Isaiah Kiplagat. "She explained she had a contract with the organisers of the race in Puerto Rice and we have acc

The Kenyan coaching team will now decide whether Chepkemei can be included in the team for this month's world cross cou
she will be granted a place in the 32-strong squad. "I am satisfied that the whole saga has been brought to an end," Chepkem
chance to compete at the world cross country championships." AK had insisted it was making an example of Chepkemei by ba
international and domestic pressure to reverse its decision. The 29-year-old took part in the 2002 and 2003 London Marathon

The two-time world half-marathon silver medallist will be back to challenge Radcliffe at this year's London event in April. AK a
missed Kenya's world cross country trials because of an ankle problem but AK insisted it would take disciplinary action unless
Masai," added Kiplagat.

McIlroy aiming for Madrid title

Northern Ireland man James McIlroy is confident he can win his first major title at this weekend's Spar European Indoor Cham

The 28-year-old has been in great form in recent weeks and will go in as one of the 800 metres favourites. "I believe after my
McIlroy. New coach Tony Lester has helped get McIlroy's career back on track. The 28-year-old 800 metres runner has not alw
base will bring the rewards. McIlroy now lives in Windsor and feels his career has been transformed by the no-nonsense lead
Roger Black and Mark Richardson in the past but under his guidance McIlroy has secured five wins this indoor season.

McIlroy now claims he is in his best shape since finishing fourth for Ireland at the outdoor European Championships in 1998. "
sport under Lester's shrewd guidance. "Before, every race was like trying to climb Mount Everest and I now know you can't d
line, which became a bit too much." McIlroy, who was compared to the likes of Sebastian Coe, Steve Cram and Steve Ovett in
change if he maintains his current form and repeats the world-class times he produced in the 800m and 1000m at major race
last week and then claimed the European Championship race would be between himself, Dutchman Arnoud Okken and Anton

He admitted: "He looked quite good in his win and fair enough everyone has the right to their own opinion. "I never write my
one minute 46.68seconds in Erfurt elevated him to sixth place on the UK All-Time list, is also already looking beyond Madrid.
me has been very important. "Ultimately of course, this weekend is a means to an end and that is getting prepared for the su
August. The rest of my time has seen me just concentrating on rebuilding my career."
UK Athletics agrees new kit deal

UK Athletics has agreed a new deal with adidas to supply Great Britain squads of all ages with their kit for the next four years.

The German-based firm kitted out Team GB at the 2004 Olympics and has deals with 20 other national Olympic bodies. UK At
championships. "In the year ahead these include the European indoor and World outdoor championships. We are delighted."
officials and other personnel at our world-class series of live televised events." This week, UK Athletics also agreed a four-yea
domestic meetings and in high performance centres.

Verdict delay for Greek sprinters

Greek athletics' governing body has postponed by two weeks the judgement on sprinters Costas Kenteris and Katerina Thano

The pair are facing lengthy bans for the missed tests, including one on the eve of last year's Athens Olympics. They were set t
decision is now expected by around mid-March," said one of their lawyers, Michalis Dimitrakopoulos. Kenteris, 31, who won t
medal in Sydney, face a maximum two-year ban if found guilty. The athletes, who spectacularly withdrew from the Athens Ol
the three tests. The IAAF said the sprinters had failed to provide samples for tests in Tel Aviv, Chicago and Athens and ordere
hearing in Greece over the missed drugs tests and have been charged with faking a motorcycle accident on the day of the Ath
the athletes sounded confident they would be acquitted. "I am confident and optimistic," Thanou had said at the time. "We p
evidence was.

Call for Kenteris to be cleared

Kostas Kenteris' lawyer has called for the doping charges against the Greek sprinter to be dropped.

Gregory Ioannidis has submitted new evidence to a Greek athletics tribunal which he claims proves the former Olympic cham
suspensions in December for failing to take drugs tests before the Athens Olympics. The Greek tribunal is expected to give its
missing drugs tests on the eve of the opening ceremony. They were also alleged to have avoided tests in Tel Aviv and Chicago

But Ioannidis said: "Everything overwhelmingly shows that the charges should be dropped." Ioannidis also said he has presen
withdrawal from the Athens Games. The lawyer added that he has proof the authorities "knew" Kenteris was in Germany at t
body the IAAF, which handed out the provisional bans, said: "We can't comment because we were not present at the hearing
Federation before the end of February and will obviously be making a statement then." Kenteris won 200m gold at the 2000 S
Merritt close to indoor 400m mark

Teenager LaShawn Merritt ran the third fastest indoor 400m of all time at the Fayetteville Invitational meeting.

The world junior champion clocked 44.93 seconds to finish well clear of fellow American Bershawn Jackson in Arkansas. Only
in 1996. Kenyan Bernard Lagat missed out on the world record by 1.45secs as he ran the third quickest indoor mile ever to be
49.89secs was inferior only to the 1997 world record of Moroccan Hicham El Guerrouj and former world record holder Eamon
could not maintain the pace over the final 400m. Ireland's

continued his excellent form by winning a tight 3,000m in 7:40.53. Cragg, who recently defeated Olympic 10,000m champion
secure his victory. Mark Carroll, who will join Cragg in the European Indoor Championships next month, finished a solid third

of Jamaica ran the fastest women's 60m in the world this year as she equalled her personal best of 7.09secs. World indoor 60

also won, improving his season-leading time to 7.51secs.

London hope over Chepkemei

London Marathon organisers are hoping that banned athlete Susan Chepkemei will still take part in this year's race on 17 Apr

Chepkemei was suspended from all competition until the end of the year by Athletics Kenya after failing to report to a nation
way to go before the race and we are hoping the situation will be satisfactorily resolved." The camp in Embu was to prepare f
finished third in last Sunday's world best 10K race in Puerto Rico. The 29-year-old has finished second to Paula Radcliffe in the

Edwards tips Idowu for Euro gold

World outdoor triple jump record holder and BBC pundit Jonathan Edwards believes Phillips Idowu can take gold at the Europ

Idowu landed 17.30m at the British trials in Sheffield last month to lead the world triple jump rankings. "It's all down to him, b
undoubted but all his best performances seem to happen in domestic meetings."

Idowu made his breakthrough five years ago but so far has only a Commonwealth silver medal to his name. Edwards himself
represent a chance for the 26-year-old to prove his credentials as Britain's top triple jumper. "He has to start producing at int
consistent. I'm sure a victory in Madrid will build up his confidence and self-belief that he can be best in the world." The quali
Saturday. Olympic champion Christian Olsson will not be taking part as he is out for the entire indoor season with an ankle inj
Chepkemei hit by big ban

Kenya's athletics body has suspended two-time London Marathon runner-up Susan Chepkemei from all competition until the

Athletics Kenya (AK) issued the ban after Chepkemei failed to turn up for a cross country training camp in Embu. "We have ba
communicate this decision to the IAAF and all meet directors all over the world." The 29-year-old finished second to Paula Ra
contest last year.

But the ban will prevent the two-time world half-marathon silver medallist from challenging Radcliffe at this year's London ev
to run in the World Cross Country Championships in March. But AK maintained it was making an example of Chepkemei as a w
"We have been accused of having no teeth to bite with and that agents are ruling over us." KA has also threatened three-time
avoid running at the cross country world championships are true. Masai missed the national trials in early February, but was i
the event, citing a leg injury.

Holmes secures comeback victory

Britain's Kelly Holmes marked her first appearance on home soil since winning double Olympic gold with 1500m victory at the

Holmes hit the front just before the bell in front of a sell-out crowd in Glasgow and cruised to victory in a time of four minute
able to get round. "I felt good. I just had to relax and use my racing knowledge," said Holmes. "It was all about winning in fron
it's about going forward. "The reception I've had since the Olympics has been amazing and that's why I wanted to keep runnin
France's Hind Dehiba and Russia's Svetlana Cherkasova. The Olympic 800m and 1500m champion's time was inside the qualif
reveal whether she intended to run or not, having previously indicated she would leave a decision until after the Birmingham

Greek pair attend drugs hearing

Greek sprinters Kostas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou have appeared before an independent tribunal which will decide if their

They were given provisional suspensions by athletics' ruling body the IAAF in December for failing to take drugs tests before t
Olympic Committee's offices. A decision is expected to be announced before the end of February. Whatever the ruling, all par
head of the Greek Olympic team at the Athens Games last year, also testified at the tribunal, along with other Greek sports o
institution," said Papadoyiannakis. "Whatever the athletes have done, we must not forget that they have offered us great mo

They withdrew from the Athens Games last August after missing drugs tests on the eve of the opening ceremony. The pair sp
tribunal, assembled by the Hellenic Association of Amateur Athletics, is also examining allegations that Kenteris and Thanou a
IAAF. He faces charges of assisting in the use of prohibited substances and tampering with the doping inspection process. All
face trial for doping-related charges. A trial date has not been set. In imposing two-year suspensions on the duo on 22 Decem
Gregory Ioannidis told BBC Sport earlier this week he was confident the sprinters would be cleared of the charges of failing to
unsubstantiated and illogical," he said. "There have been certain breaches in the correct application of the rules on behalf of
rights. "There is also evidence that proves the fact that my client has been persecuted."
Chepkemei joins Edinburgh line-up

Susan Chepkemei has decided she is fit enough to run in next month's Great Edinburgh International Cross Country.

The Kenyan was initially unsure if she would have recovered from her gruelling tussle with Paula Radcliffe in the New York Ma
cross country champion Benita Johnson. Race director Matthew Turnbull said: "Susan will add even more strength in depth to
staged in Newcastle, endured an epic battle with Radcliffe in the Big Apple until the Briton outsprinted her in the final 400m.
moved north of the border. Recently-crowned European cross country champion Briton Hayley Yelling also competes in Edinb

El Guerrouj targets cross country

Double Olympic champion Hicham El Guerrouj is set to make a rare appearance at the World Cross Country Championships in

But the Moroccan, who has not raced over cross country for 15 years, will not decide until two weeks before the event which
retiring in 2006. "Otherwise there is not much point in me going." El Guerrouj achieved a lifetime ambition last August when
still hungry for more success before calling time on his career. The 30-year-old has set his sights on clinching the world 5,000m
Bekele's 5,000m and 10,000m world records.

El Guerrouj could meet Bekele in March as the Ethiopian is the defending world cross country champion over both the long a
how well his winter training is going. "The return to training was very difficult because I accepted a lot of invitations these pas

- Britain's Paula Radcliffe has also not ruled out competing in the World Cross Country Championships. "I haven't quite decid
special to me and is a definite possibility," said the two-time champion.

Collins appeals against drugs ban

Sprinter Michelle Collins has lodged an appeal against her eight-year doping ban with the North American Court of Arbitration

The 33-year-old received the ban last month as a result of her connection to the federal inquiry into the Balco doping scandal
said that a ruling is normally given within four months of an appeal. Collins was suspended by the US Anti-Doping Agency bas
well as being hit with the ban, Collins was stripped of her 2003 world and US indoor 200m titles. The San Francisco-based Bal
of distributing illegal performance-enhancing drugs to elite athletes.
Holmes feted with further honour

Double Olympic champion Kelly Holmes has been voted European Athletics (EAA) woman athlete of 2004 in the governing bo

The Briton, made a dame in the New Year Honours List for taking 800m and 1,500m gold, won vital votes from the public, pre
Gunnell won for her world 400m hurdles win in 1993. Swedish triple jumper Christian Olsson was voted male athlete of the y
Athens. In addition to becoming a dame, she was also named the BBC Sports Personality of the Year in December. Her gutsy v
best women's performance in the world for 2004. And she scooped two awards at the British Athletics Writers' Association an

Campbell to extend sprint career

Darren Campbell has set his sights on running quicker than ever after deciding not to retire from sprinting.

Campbell, who won Olympic 4x100m relay gold, had been unsure about his future. But he told Five Live's Sportsweek: "I had
away. "I've started back and I'm thoroughly enjoying it. I'm looking forward to it. I've got to run under 10 seconds (for 100m)
to win relay gold in Athens in August.

The Newport-based athlete and team-mates Jason Gardener, Marlon Devonish and Mark Lewis-Francis were rewarded with M
the individual 100m and 200m events in Athens, when he failed to reach the finals. The 31-year-old, who won Olympic 200m
his best.

He was criticised at the time by former Olympic champion Michael Johnson, who cast doubt on Campbell's injury claims. "To
"It was a chance for me to prove that if I'd been fit I would have been challenging for the (individual) medals. "Every season I
that I picked up that injury just before the Olympics." Campbell set his 100m personal best of 10.04secs when he won the Eur
way to Olympic silver.

Isinbayeva heads for Birmingham

Olympic pole vault champion Yelena Isinbayeva has confirmed she will take part in the 2005 Norwich Union Grand Prix in Birm

"Everybody knows how much I enjoy competing in Britain. I always seem to break records there," said Isinbayeva. "As Olympi
record in Birmingham." Kelly Holmes and Carolina Kluft are among other Athens winners competing. The organisers are hopin
pair had a thrilling battle in Athens which ended with Isinbayeva finally jumping a world record of 4.91m to claim the gold me
2004: An Irish Athletics Year

2004 won't be remembered as one of Irish athletics' great years.

The year began with that optimism which invariably and unaccountably, seems to herald an upcoming Olympiad. But come la
athletics - or to be more accurate, the lack of it. Sonia O'Sullivan's Olympic farewell apart, there was little to stir the emotions
surprised. At the start of the year, an O'Sullivan had been earmarked as Ireland's best medal prospect but as it turned out, wa
the sport was rocked by news that 10,000m hope Cathal Lombard had tested for the banned substance EPO. Lombard's shatt
most cynical of observers, were surprised when he was rumbled after an Irish Sports Council sting operation. The Corkman qu

Back at pre-Olympic ranch in Greece, it must have seemed that things couldn't have got any worse but they very nearly did w
the track and field action began in Athens, a familiar pattern of underachievement emerged although Alistair Cragg's perform
the future. Our beloved Sonia scraped into the women's 5K final as a fastest loser and for a couple of days, the country attem
out the back door early in the final although there was nothing undignified about the way that she insisted on finishing the ra
stomach bug in the 48 hours before the final although typically, the Cobhwoman played down the effects of the illness. Amaz
road race in London and while her major championship days may be over, it's unlikely that we have seen the last of her in com
athletes had genuine hopes of qualifying for the Games but come August, an out-of-form and injured Paul Brizzel was the lon
lane draw, meant a time of 21.00 and an early exit.

James McIlroy, Gareth Turnbull, Zoe Brown and Paul McKee all had to be content with watching the Athens action on their te
the British trials effectively ended his hopes of making the plane. The injury-plagued Turnbull gamely travelled round Europe
months training during the previous winter. A lingering hamstring probem and a virus wrecked McKee's Athens ambitions and
of confidence from the British selectors after she had achieved the Athens B standard but the call never came. As the summe
McKiernan had to candidly acknowledge that time had crept up on her after several injury-ravaged years. Donnelly and his An
found dead at his home on 18 December. A large turnout of athletics-loving folk turned out in west Belfast to offer their resp
happenings in a sharp perspective.

Sprinter Walker quits athletics

Former European 200m champion Dougie Walker is to retire from athletics after a series of six operations left him struggling f

Walker had hoped to compete in the New Year Sprint which is staged at Musselburgh Racecourse near Edinburgh on Tuesday
nandrolone. "I had intended to race but I'm running like a goon," said Walker. He told the Herald newspaper: "I'm not in grea
weeks, and then another week working in America. "If I'd had a half-decent mark it might have motivated me more, but I won
Bekele sets sights on world mark

Olympic 10,000m champion Kenenisa Bekele is determined to add the world indoor two mile record at February's Norwich U

The 22-year-old will again be chasing a record held by his compatriot and mentor Haile Gebrselassie, who set the mark at the
aiming for the two mile world record in Birmingham is the next of those targets." Gebrselassie's current record stands at eigh
Arena. The Ethiopian broke the world indoor 5,000m record on his debut at the meeting last year. Compatriots Mulugeta Wo
against Bekele on 18 February. The meet has already attracted a crop of Olympic talent. Britain's 800m and 1500m champion
the 60m hurdles. While men's 4x100m relay gold medallists Jason Gardener and Mark Lewis-Francis will go head-to-head in t

Greek sprinters suspended by IAAF

Greek sprinters Kostas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou have been suspended after failing to take drugs tests before the Athens

Athletics' ruling body the IAAF said explanations from the pair and their former coach as to why they missed the tests were "u
resolution of their cases". They face two-year bans if found guilty by the Greek Athletics Federation. The suspension also cove
Thanou, the women's 100m silver medallist from the same Games in Sydney, also face a criminal hearing in Greece over the m
Games and again in Athens on 12 August, the eve of the opening ceremony. Greek prosecutors have also charged them with
have been charged with writing false medical reports. Wednesday's statement said the Greek Federation (SEGAS) would conv

"There will be a final right of appeal from the decision of the Greek Federation to the Court of Arbitration for Sport," the IAAF
said. "We'll be presenting all our arguments to SEGAS - we're innocent."
The victory for the British men's 4x100m relay team was a bit of a surprise but a great climax to the Games. I think the four of
that it was their best chance of a medal. The lads had run poorly in the individual sprints so maybe they did lift their game wh

Hicham El Guerrouj's Olympic double is a much bigger achievement than Kelly's on a global scale.

He was the first man since for 80 years to win both the 1500m and 5,000m titles. As soon as he had added the 5,000m crown
just gave him a big hug. He is one of the few African runners who has embraced the tradition of the mile and he loves to hear
French and his English are not very good.

What happened to Paula in Athens this year is the obvious low on a personal level and for the expectations of the nation as w
which I think has been greatly misunderstood. Dropping out of the marathon was the right thing to do but starting in the 10,0
things going wrong in her preparation and on the day.

Things like niggling injuries, not being able to do all her running sessions and feeling the pressure of the race looming ahead o
smallest thing doesn't feel right when you are preparing to race a marathon, 10 miles down the road it will hit you like a brick
will a lot of people - including me.

Purely as a race, Paula's victory in the New York Marathon has to go down as one of the most thrilling. It was so nip-and-tuck
marathons. It was also a real delight for all athletics fans because, to use one of my favourite words, Paula showed real "boun
race was going to pan out.

Kelly and the 4x100m boys' victories papered over the cracks in the general performance of the British team. We should be co

The only individual men's finalist on the track was Michael East in the 1500m. I am beginning to look down and wonder wher
not win any medals at the world junior championships in Italy. Dani Barnes came fourth in the 1500m and she was the highes
really doesn't look good for the Beijing Olympics and beyond.
Collins banned in landmark case

Sprinter Michelle Collins has received an eight-year ban for doping offences after a hearing at the North American Court of Ar

America's former world indoor 200m champion is the first athlete to be suspended without a positive drugs test or an admiss
scandal. The 33-year-old was found guilty of using performance-enhancing drugs. The US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) decide
but the CAS has upheld USADA's findings. "The USADA has proved, beyond a reasonable doubt, that Collins took EPO, the tes
enhance her performance and elude the drug testing that was available at the time." So far a total of 13 athletes have been s
Tim Montgomery is also facing a lifetime ban after being charged by the USADA. His hearing before the CSA has been resched

Drug enforcement chiefs in the US have vowed to crack down on cheats. USADA chief executive officer Terry Madden said th
who violate the rules will be sanctioned as part of USADA's ongoing efforts to protect the rights of the overwhelming majority
given to the federal investigation into Balco rather than test results. The San Francisco-based Balco laboratory faces steroid d

Jones doping probe begins

An investigation into doping claims against Marion Jones has been opened by the International Olympic Committee.

IOC president Jacques Rogge has set up a disciplinary body to look into claims by Victor Conte, of Balco Laboratories. Jones, w
enhancing drugs before the Sydney Olympics. But Rogge said it was too early to speculate about that, hoping only that "the t

Any decision on the medals would be taken by the IOC's executive board and could hinge on interpretation of a rule stating th
Olympics ended more than four years ago, but World Anti-Doping Agency chief Dick Pound said the rule may not apply becau
statement released through her attorney Rich Nichols, Jones repeated her innocence and vowed she would be cleared. "Victo
moves forward," she said. "Conte is someone who is under federal indictment and has a record of issuing contradictory, incon

Johnson accuses British sprinters

Former Olympic champion Michael Johnson has accused Britain's top sprinters of lacking pride and ambition.

"At the moment, the biggest factor on the mind of British sprinters is to be number one in Britain," the world 200m and 400m
need to show a little more pride." However, Linford Christie countered: "It's easy to criticise when you haven't gone through
The American had cast doubt on Campbell's claims he had torn a hamstring in the wake of his failure to reach the Olympic 10

And the American remains highly critical of aspects of British sprinting. "The only time you see British sprinters getting upset o
have to compete more outside the UK. Their focus has to be on being the best in the world and not just on being the top Briti
there has been more investment in the sport in Britain, it had not necessarily reaped the rewards. "You can't fix everything w
funding. "Those who aren't funded might be hungrier and more motivated because their road to success is a lot more difficul
Radcliffe proves doubters wrong

This won't go down as one of the greatest marathons of Paula's career. But as a test of character, it was the toughest race she

A win in the New York marathon doesn't make up for the disappointment of Athens in any shape or form, but it will offer hop
been very difficult to look forward with any optimism. She can now draw a line under this year and make plans about her futu
can dig deep if she needs to. It was a strong field, with a number of the girls going into the race with expectations of winning.
difficult course.

I was speaking to Paula in the lead-up to this race and she said that in many ways she was facing a no-win situation. She thou
would say her career was over. And a lot of people were wondering what would happen if Paula was forced to drop out of th
have been beaten, but she would have kept running. The reasons she was forced to pull out in Athens - the niggling injuries, h
position she could finish in. Most important of all, despite all the hype in the media ahead of this race, there were never doub
world at an event, you'll always have expectations of winning.

Now Paula will take part in the Run London 10km race in London at the end of the year, have a well-earned rest over Christm

Jones medals 'must go if guilty'

World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) chief Dick Pound says Marion Jones should be stripped of all her medals if found guilty of

Victor Conte, of Balco Laboratories, claims the American sprinter regularly used drugs to enhance her performance. "If she is
there was a timescale as to what medals could be taken, Pound said: "That is not an issue at all." However, under Internation
years of the event. Jones, who won five medals at the 2000 Olympics, denies using drugs and says she will take legal action ov
doping in the US. Pound continued: "If she has indeed taken drugs it is going to be a big disappointment for a lot of people."
Paula Radcliffe faces arguably the biggest test of her career in the New York City Marathon on Sunday.

Back under the spotlight of public scrutiny she will attempt to erase the double disappointment of the Athens Olympics, wher
Radcliffe ahead of the big race.

The ability to run a gruelling 26.2 miles relies largely upon an athlete's belief that they can do it. Every runner will hit the wall

The question could hit Radcliffe hard after she was unable to complete her last two races in high-profile and emotional circum
conquer a potential crisis of confidence. "There is an old adage, 'get straight back on the horse that threw you,'" Richards told
must not lose faith in what has already been proven is a very effective strategy for distance running. "If she were to change h
performance accomplishment."

For much of the watching media and public there can only be two possible outcomes in New York - win or lose. If Radcliffe cro
labelled a has-been and her profile will suffer. And for any athlete that can have repercussions in terms of sponsorship, appea

"Athletes need to try and stay focused on their internal controls and ignore external questions," explains Richards, who has w
friend and fellow distance runner Liz Yelling revealed the 30-year-old is already aware she will be exposing herself to more pu
BBC Sport. "She's just doing what she wants to do and not thinking about the consequences of it."

Radcliffe described her decision to enter the New York marathon as "impulsive" but she is certain to have a tick-list of person
but Richards says she must avoid more emotional targets, such as redemption. "You can't change history," warned Richards.
what sort of things will she feel satisfied achieving by the end of the race."

The course from Staten Island to Central Park is renowned as one of the toughest in the world. It is also not the kind of fast co
reserves.

Radcliffe has never raced there before and will enter the unknown just 77 days after the Athens marathon. "It's suggested aft
marathon runner. "But that is only for long-term health and fitness. "When you finish a marathon you are still very fit and can
will be more conducive to a strong physical display from Radcliffe. "The heat stress was the primary factor that tripped her up
equation."

Radcliffe concedes she will probably learn a lot from her bad experiences in Athens in time. And Richards and Yelling agree sh
marks you out as elite or not," argues Richards.

"One of the challenges of massive set backs is how you turn them into opportunities." And Yelling says: "I think this will proba
Rusedski angry over supplements

Greg Rusedski has criticised the governing body of men's tennis for not releasing contamination-free supplements in time for

Rusedski said: "I tried to order some but didn't receive any and I haven't got any yet. "You would think they would have been
hottest period of the year, so you would hope the stuff would be available for it." The British number two escaped a possible
ATP supplements. In response, the ATP struck a deal with pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline to provide contaminatio

David Higdon, Vice President of the ATP, admitted: "I agree with Greg. "I would have loved to have had these things available
reality is though that the first two weeks of the tour are spread far and wide and part of the distribution agreement we had w
having a talk with the players about understanding how to use them.

"The first chance we will get to do that is at the players meeting on the Saturday before the Australian Open." And Rusedski,
changes will be beneficial. "The good thing is that there is now a 100% guarantee, so hopefully all this will never happen again

Navratilova hits out at critics

Martina Navratilova has defended her decision to prolong her tennis career at the age of 48.

Navratilova, who made a comeback after retiring in 1994, will play doubles and mixed doubles events in 2005. "Women's ten
the women's game. "All I can say is I'm that damn good. I'm sorry but I really have to blow my own horn here. I'm still that go
she was so encouraged by her form that she decided to resume playing singles, winning two of her seven matches. She was k
Navratilova will partner Nathalie Dechy in the doubles event at the Uncle Toby's Hardcourts tournament on Australia's Gold C
doubles, and play in the mixed doubles with Leander Paes. "I might be playing some singles events this season, depending on

Prodigy Monfils blows away Gaudio

French prodigy Gael Monfils underlined his huge promise by beating French Open champion Gaston Gaudio 6-4 7-6 (7-4) in th

The 18-year-old wild card won three of the four junior Grand Slam events last year, including Wimbledon. Fabrice Santoro, th
6 (7-3) to Rafael Nadal. Roger Federer plays Greg Rusedski in the second round on Wednesday. Monfils, who was given a wild
best tennis when I am fired up on the court and the reason I won today was because I was able to play my natural, attacking
there been a third set."
Connors boost for British tennis

Former world number one Jimmy Connors is planning a long-term relationship with the Lawn Tennis Association to help unea

The American spent three days at the LTA's annual Elite Performance winter camp in La Manga earlier this week. "Britain has
arrangement is just confusing. The kids will ask: 'What am I doing there?'" LTA chief executive, John Crowther, added: "The re
we'd like some more of it. "We want to use Jimmy for a number of weeks a year and we hope this is the beginning of a good l

The camp played host to more than 30 leading senior and junior players, including Greg Rusedski, Arvind Parmar and Anne Ke
speaking at Queen's Club in London. "What impressed me most was not only the coaches but the way the kids went about th
of 15, 16, 17, with that desire and passion, and that can only be brought about by the coaches surrounding them. "Instilling th
and all they have to do is give back the effort, and every minute of practice they were doing that."

Speaking from La Manga, LTA performance director David Felgate told BBC Sport: "Jimmy was fantastic with the players and t
hopefully it will grow and he'll get to have more of an individual relationship with some of the players and get to know them.
me, it's my life and my passion and it's the same with the coaches. "He respects that but he wants to be involved and have re
Connors has also agreed to commentate for the BBC at next year's Wimbledon Championships. He will work during the secon

Henin-Hardenne beaten on comeback

Justine Henin-Hardenne lost to Elena Dementieva in a comeback exhibition match in Belgium on Sunday for her second defea

And the Belgian, who has slipped to eight in the world after struggling with a virus, faces a tough Australian Open title defenc
"But I think there'll be less pressure than last time even if I am champion." Henin-Hardenne was speaking after a 6-2 5-7 6-2 l
champion went down 6-2 7-5 to France's Nathalie Dechy.

"I have to be positive, I still have a few weeks," she said. "My body has to get accustomed again to the stress, the rhythm." He
April. After an initial lay-off, she was forced off the circuit for a second time after being knocked out of the French Open in the
at the fourth-round stage. But despite her problems, she still won five of the nine official tournaments she entered in 2004 an
on Friday. "Physically, it's obvious that I hit rock bottom," said the 22-year-old, who will make her comeback in the Sydney Int
"All the successes I had prior to that were mainly due to the work I put in on building up my fitness. "Now it's time to get back
Moya clinches Cup for Spain

Spain won the Davis Cup for the second time in their history when Carlos Moya beat the USA's Andy Roddick in the fourth rub

Moya won 6-2 7-6 (7-1) 7-6 (7-5) to give the hosts an unassailable 3-1 lead with only one singles rubber remaining. Roddick b
Mardy Fish beat Tommy Robredo 7-6 (8-6) 6-2 in the final dead rubber to cut Spain's winning margin to 3-2. Spain's only othe
final in Seville and the city's Olympic Stadium was revamped to allow for a record crowd for a competitve tennis event of 27,0
Moya winning both Friday's singles rubbers. American twins Mike and Bob Bryan gave the visitors hope with victory over Juan
far happier on hard courts than clay, and 1998 French Open champion Moya had too much for world number two Roddick. "T
2000 through injury. "I've prepared myself for this day. I knew that playing on clay I would have my chances to win.

"The Davis Cup is my dream. I can't ask for more. There is nothing bigger than what I've lived today." Moya stormed into a 4-0
in the second. The match came down to two tie-breaks and Moya dominated both, clinching victory on his third match point.
who at 18 years and 187 days becomes the youngest ever victor in Davis Cup history. "I think we put up a better fight here th
finals at Roland Garros. "They were just better than us this weekend. I have nothing to be ashamed of, I gave it my all. "I am n
improve."

Capriati to miss Melbourne

Jennifer Capriati has become the third leading lady to withdraw from the Australian Open because of injury.

The organisers of the first grand slam of 2005, which begins on 17 January, said the American has a problem with her right sh
runner-up, Kim Clijsters, will also be absent. Capriati is a two-time champion in Melbourne with wins in 2001 and 2002. She is
had to pull out of an exhibition match with Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova on 17 December. Capriati also decided ag
Classy Henman makes winning start

Tim Henman opened his 2005 campaign with a 6-1 7-5 victory over Argentine David Nalbandian at the Kooyong Classic exhibi

The British number one will next play Roger Federer at the Australian Open warm-up event on Friday. The world number one
Massu 6-1 7-6 (7-4). Andy Roddick beat Ivan Ljubicic, who replaced Paradorn Srichaphan, 6-1 6-4. Henman made an impressiv
regained his composure to win the next two games for only his second win in six matches against the Argentine. "It's a great s
very difficult to play against.

"He returns serve very well and he's deceptively effective from the baseline, so sometimes it can be difficult to execute my ga
for the confidence and it bodes well at the beginning of the year." Henman also revealed the extent of the back problems he
and wanted to have a couple of weeks where I didn't do anything," said Henman. "When I started training again it really, real
tight first set against 2004 French Open champion Gaudio, but was content with his game. "It was about getting used to the s

"The conditions are much quicker than Doha, my timing was OK, but I could have served better. "All in all I'm happy with the
Agassi was delighted with victory over Massu in his first match for over two months. "I felt pretty good," said the American. "
doing most things pretty darn well for the first match."

Moya emotional after Davis Cup win

Carlos Moya described Spain's Davis Cup victory as the highlight of his career after he beat Andy Roddick to end the USA's cha

Moya made up for missing Spain's 2000 victory through injury by beating Roddick 6-2 7-6 (7-1) 7-6 (7-5) to give the hosts an u
has been focused on today. "What I have lived today I do not think I will live again." Spain's only other Davis Cup title came tw
Cup is my dream and I was a bit nervous at the outset. "Some people have said that I am obsessed but I think that it is better
really something." Spanish captain Jordi Arrese said: "Charly played a great game. It was his opportunity and he hasn't let us d
to be in this position." Spain's victory was also remarkable for the performance of Rafael Nadal, who beat Roddick in the open

Aged 18 years and 185 days, the Mallorcan became the youngest player to win the Davis Cup. "What a great way to finish the
more tennis on clay and hone their skills on the surface. "I think it will help these guys even on slow hard courts to learn how
to say that we're going to just start playing constantly on clay, with the schedule. "But certainly I think we can put the work in
this stuff," said McEnroe. Roddick was left frustrated after losing both his singles on the slow clay of Seville's Olympic Stadium
the world," said the American. "I had my chances and just didn't convert them. The bottom line is they were just better than
Moya emotional at Davis Cup win

Carlos Moya described Spain's Davis Cup victory as the highlight of his career after he beat Andy Roddick to end the USA's cha

Moya made up for missing Spain's 2000 victory through injury by beating Roddick 6-2 7-6 (7-1) 7-6 (7-5) to give the hosts an u
has been focused on today. "What I have lived today I do not think I will live again." Spain's only other Davis Cup title came tw
Cup is my dream and I was a bit nervous at the outset. "Some people have said that I am obsessed but I think that it is better
really something." Spanish captain Jordi Arrese said: "Charly played a great game. It was his opportunity and he hasn't let us d
to be in this position." Spain's victory was also remarkable for the performance of Rafael Nadal, who beat Roddick in the open

Aged 18 years and 185 days, the Mallorcan became the youngest player to win the Davis Cup. "What a great way to finish the
more tennis on clay and hone their skills on the surface. "I think it will help these guys even on slow hard courts to learn how
to say that we're going to just start playing constantly on clay, with the schedule. "But certainly I think we can put the work in
this stuff," said McEnroe. Roddick was left frustrated after losing both his singles on the slow clay of Seville's Olympic Stadium
the world," said the American. "I had my chances and just didn't convert them. The bottom line is they were just better than

Capriati out of Australian Open

Jennifer Capriati has become the third leading lady to withdraw from the Australian Open because of injury.

The organisers of the first grand slam of 2005, which begins on 17 January, said the American has a problem with her right sh
runner-up, Kim Clijsters, will also be absent. Capriati is a two-time champion in Melbourne with wins in 2001 and 2002. She is
had to pull out of an exhibition match with Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova on 17 December. Capriati also decided ag

Bryan twins keep US hopes alive

The United States kept the Davis Cup final alive with victory in Saturday's doubles rubber, leaving Spain 2-1 ahead going into

Masters Cup champions Mike and Bob Bryan thrashed Juan Carlos Ferrero and Tommy Robredo 6-0 6-3 6-2 in front of a parti
reverse singles, Carlos Moya takes on Andy Roddick before Rafael Nadal faces Mardy Fish. "It feels good, but it's not going to
shot, and Spain has to go to sleep on that." Bob Bryan added: "I'm really confident in Andy winning that first match, and then
epic singles win over Roddick on Friday. He was replaced by former world number one Ferrero, but the Spanish pair were out

The 26-year-old Bryan twins have won all four of their Davis Cup matches this year. And they quickly silenced the huge crowd
breaks of serve at the start of the second before the Bryans broke to go 5-3 ahead and served out. When Robredo dropped se
powered on to an impressive win. Ferrero, who was upset to be dropped for Friday's singles, hinted at further dissatisfaction
everything calculated and we had very little to do. "I was a bit surprised that I was named to play the doubles match because
the Bryans are great doubles players."
Faultless Federer has no equal

Roger Federer - nice bloke, fantastic tennis player - the ultimate sportsman.

When Lleyton Hewitt shook his hand after getting another thrashing, a third in as many months, the Australian said; "You're t
them Grand Slams - and 13 final victories in a row going back to Vienna 2003. That's an open-era record. Hewitt, at times in H
was outplayed. Twice. Hewitt, along with Andy Roddick and Marat Safin, is sure to be prominent during 2005. But realistically
Federer himself, the Swiss star is in a different league.

"Right now I feel that a little bit," he told BBC Sport. "I've dominated all the top ten players. They say nice things about me be
one player in the world is also the main man for promoting the sport off court. He has just been voted, by the International Te
match, from first round to final, is followed by a series of press interviews in three languages; English, French and Swiss-Germ
with courtesy and, most importantly, good humour. "You guys are funny, I have a good time with you guys," he said, genuine
away an hour for interviews is really no problem for me. "If I can promote tennis and the sport then that is good for me. Peop
dominate the sports pages for a decade. It sums up his modest personality. Shortly after collecting a Waterford Crystal trophy
concluded by saying "thanks for having me". Now he just needs to find a way of winning the French Open, the one Grand Slam

Mauresmo opens with victory in LA

Amelie Mauresmo and Maria Sharapova won their opening matches at the Tour Championships in Los Angeles.

France's Mauresmo routed Vera Zvonareva 6-1 6-0, while Wimbledon champion Sharapova was a 6-1 6-4 winner over fellow
7-5 for her second victory of the event. The event is split into two groups of four with the top two from each advancing to the

Mauresmo's win was her ninth in a row as she tries to overtake Lindsay Davenport for the number one spot. Mauresmo spen
then, I feel very confident on court and my game is there. I want to get the ranking back, but it's very different than before I w
match in the season-ending championship in 54 minutes as Russia's Zvonareva struggled to return her serve and failed to ach

"She got mad a little bit and I played some great tennis," said Mauresmo, who was runner-up to Kim Clijsters in last year's fina
Wednesday. "Sometimes not everything works," she said. "It was lots of pressure. Maybe that is why I couldn't do 100%. But
was coming off such a big winning streak [14 matches] and she was unstoppable. "This time, it was important to start off well
great. "To be here where the Lakers play, you just feel that excitement. I love basketball." Williams admitted she is still some
it right but I'm fighting and I'm hoping," said Williams. "What makes me happy is the effort. I had a really good effort today. "I
Agassi fear for Melbourne

Andre Agassi's involvement in the Australian Open was put in doubt after he pulled out of the Kooyong Classic with a hip inju

Agassi was serving at 5-6 down in the first set to fellow American Andy Roddick when he decided to bring a premature end to
won the Australian Open four times, will have an MRI scan to discover the extent of the damage. He said the problem was no

"The good news is that it didn't just tear, it was tightening up and that can be your body protecting itself, which is hopefully m
and see what I'm dealing with - it's a pretty scary feeling out there when something doesn't feel right and is getting worse. "It
Open) is a possibility or not. "I was not counting on this being the end of the day for me. "Maybe in a few days I'll have a muc

18 Nicolas Massu (Chile)

19 Vincent Spadea (US)

20 Dominik Hrbaty (Slovakia)

21 Nicolas Kiefer (Germany)

22 Ivan Ljubicic (Croatia)

23 Fernando Gonzalez (Chile)

24 Feliciano Lopez (Spain)

25 Juan Ignacio Chela (Argentina)

26 Nikolay Davydenko (Russia)

27 Paradorn Srichaphan (Thailand)

28 Mario Ancic (Croatia)

29 Taylor Dent (US)

30 Thomas Johansson (Sweden)

31 Juan Carlos Ferrero (Spain)

32 Jurgen Melzer (Austria)

1 Lindsay Davenport (US)

2 Amelie Mauresmo (France)

3 Anastasia Myskina (Russia)

4 Maria Sharapova (Russia)

Moya suffers shock loss

Fifth seed Carlos Moya was the first big name to fall at the Australian Open as he went down to fellow Spaniard Guillermo Ga

Moya began the year with victory at the Chennai Open but looked out of sorts from the start in the Melbourne heat. Garcia-L
hang on for a 7-5 6-3 3-6 6-3 victory. The 21-year-old plays Kevin Kim or Lee Hyuung-Taik in the second round. Garcia-Lopez w
important win of my life as Carlos is one of the best players in the world," he said. "This has given me a lot of confidence. Now
preparation but something was wrong today."

Four-time champion Andre Agassi began what could be his last Australian Open with a convincing win over German qualifier
week, stormed to a 6-4 6-3 6-0 win. Agassi will play France's Olivier Patience or Germany's Rainer Schuettler - the man he bea
eighth seed Agassi. "I'd worked hard to be down here and ready. But the last few days, I've pushed through the injury and it s
card with a magnificent 1-6 6-3 6-4 7-6 (8-6) win over American Robby Ginepri. The 2002 champion Thomas Johansson fough
Justin Gimelstob 7-6 (7-3) 6-4 6-3. Seeds Dominik Hrbaty, Ivan Ljubicic and Mario Ancic made comfortable progress, but form

Clijsters hope on Aussie Open

Kim Clijsters has denied reports that she has pulled out of January's Australian Open because of her persistent wrist injury.

Open chief Paul McNamee had said: "Kim's wrist obviously isn't going to be rehabilitated." But her spokesman insisted she ha
there is no risk she could play. But if there's the least risk she will stay away." Despite being absent from the WTA entry list fo
requested one. Clijsters is still ranked 22nd in the world despite only playing a handful of matches last season. The Belgian ha
Meanwhile, Jelena Dokic, who used to compete for Australia, has opted out of the first Grand Slam of the season. Dokic has n
have had to rely on a wild card next season because her ranking has tumbled to 127th. Four-time champion Monica Seles, wh

Clijsters could play Aussie Open

Kim Clijsters has denied reports that she has pulled out of January's Australian Open because of her persistent wrist injury.

Open chief Paul McNamee had said: "Kim's wrist obviously isn't going to be rehabilitated." But her spokesman insisted she ha
there is no risk she could play. But if there's the least risk she will stay away." Despite being absent from the WTA entry list fo
requested one. Clijsters is still ranked 22nd in the world despite only playing a handful of matches last season. The Belgian ha
Meanwhile, Jelena Dokic, who used to compete for Australia, has opted out of the first Grand Slam of the season. Dokic has n
have had to rely on a wild card next season because her ranking has tumbled to 127th. Four-time champion Monica Seles, wh
Edgy Agassi struggles past Dent

Andre Agassi put in an erratic display before edging into the fourth round of the Australian Open with victory over Taylor Den

The 34-year-old American, seeded eighth, made a poor start, dropping serve early on and later needing two chances to serve
succession of breaks. But Agassi won the tie-break before wrapping up a 7-5 7-6 (7-3) 6-1 win. Fourth seed

survived an injury scare as he battled past Mario Ancic 6-4 3-6 6-3 6-4. The Russian turned his right ankle in the third game of
returned to the court to wrap up victory in two hours 45 minutes.

Ancic, Wimbledon semi-finalist in 2004, looked set to push Safin all the way when he took the second set but Safin raised his
tournament. The Russian hit himself on the head repeatedly in one second-set outburst but was otherwise largely calm in his
because he's a tough opponent," he said. "I'm a little bit calmer than I was before because I'd had enough." The Russian adde
be OK," he said.

's route to the fourth round was made easy when opponent Jarkko Nieminen was forced to retire from their match.

The top seed and defending champion was leading 6-3 5-2 when Nieminen pulled out with an abdominal injury. Federer had
play Cypriot

next after the former world junior champion beat Tommy Robredo 7-6 (7-2) 6-4 6-1. Federer admitted he was under extra pre
not that simple," he said. "I had a feeling this could be a tough match. I had a bad start but I bounced back. I always want to p

is out of the tournament after a five-set defeat by Dominik Hrbaty. Hrbaty defeated the 10th seed 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 (8-10) 6-7 (3-7
exhausting baseline battle, with Hrbaty taking a decisive advantage in the eighth game of the final set. Hrbaty will now play 2

, who outlasted American Kevin Kim 3-6 6-2 6-7 6-2 6-2.

Roddick splits from coach Gilbert

Andy Roddick has ended an 18-month association with coach Brad Gilbert which yielded the US Open title and saw the Ameri

Roddick released a statement through the SFX Sports Group with the news but did not give a reason for the split. "The decisio
time," said Roddick. "Any more on this situation's a private matter between coach and player." Roddick won 121 of his 147 m
Slam event at Flushing Meadows last year, and finished 2003 on top of the ATP Tour rankings.

But Roddick slipped to second this year behind Roger Federer, who became the first man since 1988 to win three Majors in a
beat Roddick to win the Wimbledon title and in two other tournament finals. Roddick hired Gilbert after deciding to part from
the US Open and four other titles for the year. He has won four events this season. "I have enjoyed all of my time with Andy,"
worked together and I am very proud of the results that were achieved. "While I believe that there is still a great deal of work
Roddick in talks over new coach

Andy Roddick is reportedly close to confirming US Davis Cup assistant Dean Goldfine as his new coach.

Roddick ended his 18-month partnership with Brad Gilbert on Monday, and Goldfine admits talks have taken place. "We had
commitment and what he wants," said Goldfine. "The reading I got from him is that I would have a lot of the qualities he's loo
being said, from his standpoint, which is smart, he wants to cover all his bases. "I think Andy wants a long-term relationship a
Roddick's close friend Mardy Fish, and was an assistant coach with the US Olympic team. Martin is the other name to have be

Hewitt survives Nalbandian epic

Home favourite Lleyton Hewitt came through a dramatic five-set battle with Argentine David Nalbandian to reach the Austral

Hewitt looked to be cruising to victory after racing into a two-set lead. But Nalbandian broke his serve three times in both of t
game and served out to win 6-3 6-2 1-6 3-6 10-8 and set up a meeting with Andy Roddick. The winner of that match will face
sets down to win a match, and there was no indication he would do so as Hewitt dominated the first two sets.

The Argentine had stoked up the temperature ahead of the match by saying Hewitt's exuberant on-court celebrations were "
when the Australian appeared to brush shoulders with him as they went to their chairs. The balance of power changed comp
on the way to taking the fourth set. But the tiring third seed showed incredible reserves of strength to force the break despite
produced a love service game to finish off the match in four hours and five minutes. "I just kept hanging in there. It was alway
Grand Slam. "I told myself to give everything and in the end it paid off once again. "It's a long way from holding that trophy up
set up for a pretty good showdown in the semis and finals."

Sydney return for Henin-Hardenne

Olympic champion Justine Henin-Hardenne will return to action in January's Sydney International tournament.

The Belgian has not competed since losing her top world ranking at the US Open in September, where she was beaten in the
and at the Australian Open. Women's world number one Lindsay Davenport and French Open champion Anastasia Myskina w

In the men's event, world number three Lleyton Hewitt returns to defend his title, along with runner-up Carlos Moya. Moya, S
set of the final.

Tournament director Craig Watson said: "I had a message relayed to me from him after Spain's Davis Cup victory, saying he w
take place from 9-15 January.
Koubek suspended after drugs test

Stefan Koubek says he has been banned for three months by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) after testing positive fo

The world number 60 failed a routine drugs test at this year's French Open but now plans to lodge an appeal. Koubek believe
the substance in his system. "I have acted correctly," the 27-year-old Austrian said in a statement. Koubek, who defeated Brit
the season. He said, "A three-month ban would mean that I not only will miss the Australian Open, but also the Davis Cup in A

Hewitt fights back to reach final

Lleyton Hewitt kept his dream of an Australian Open title alive with a four-set win over Andy Roddick in Friday's second semi-

The home favourite will face Marat Safin in Sunday's final after coming through 3-6 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (7-4) 6-1. Hewitt fought back
with a typically battling effort. He is aiming to be the first Australian winner since Mark Edmondson in 1976. Hewitt is the first
against Safin - the conqueror of Roger Federer. After needing five sets in his last two matches there was reason to think Hewi
Roddick dominated with his huge serve as he took the first set.

After 12 tense games in the second, the key moment came when Hewitt raised his game in the tie-break to overturn an early
third before Hewitt pegged him back and forced another tie-break. Again Roddick broke first and again Hewitt fought back, ta

The Australian was not to be denied and a disheartened Roddick made little impact in the fourth set as Hewitt raced to victor
Hewitt. "I started preparing for this tournament nine months ago. "I've done a lot of hard yards to get here. "I've always said
was furious with himself for failing to take advantage of leads in both tie-breaks. "I'm usually pretty money in those," said Rod
a shot. He put himself in position to win big points. I donated a little more than I would have wanted." And the American play
Rodick's service action. "It just took one jackass to shout out," said Roddick, adding that the crowd overall was "very respectfu

Officials respond in court row

Australian tennis' top official has defended the Australian Open courts at Melbourne Park after criticism of the playing surface

Hewitt said he had had a "gutful" of trying to persuade them to make the surface faster but Tennis Australia's Geoff Pollard re
faster," he said. "We spent a substantial amount of money on modifications to make it faster." Hewitt, who has not got past t
prestigious tournament. But he said he would play on whatever surface he had to in order to have a chance of winning. The t
tournament following complaints by several Australian players. But he refused to accept that the Melbourne surface may hav
surfaces," he said. "It is faster than last year and that'll be faster than the one Lleyton beat Roger Federer on in the Davis Cup
Williams battles to Aussie title

Serena Williams staged a remarkable recovery to beat Lindsay Davenport and win her second Australian Open title.

The 2003 champion claimed her seventh Grand Slam title, and her first since Wimbledon in 2003, 2-6 6-3 6-0. Williams had lo
dropped the first set but from 3-3 in the second found another gear as Davenport's game collapsed, allowing Williams to take
in the first set. "Lindsay had me on the run out wide on my backhand and my back went but eventually I was able to come ba
years and she's come back like a champion."

The 23-year-old former world number one was in desperate trouble in the early stages as the injury hampered her service acti
the second. "I kept thinking to myself 'I'm not losing this game," said Williams afterwards. "'I don't care if my arm falls off, I'm
because it would have given her a lot of momentum, and a lot of confidence." Despite letting the break points slip away Dave
consecutive points for the set and powered through the decider as a lacklustre Davenport looked to have run out of energy a
Davenport. "Then I just had that horrible lapse, I think serving up 40-0, and made a few errors and opened up the door for he
of it and kept going - she's a great frontrunner when she gets going."

Safin cool on Wimbledon

Newly-crowned Australian Open champion Marat Safin has ruled out any chance of winning Wimbledon in the future.

After losing in round one last year, Safin said he had "given up" on Wimbledon and winning his second Grand Slam title has no
that surface," he said. "Some people, they cannot play on clay. Some people, they cannot play on a hard court. Me, I can't pla
to win more Grand Slam titles. "It's a relief for me. Two grand slams, it's already something. But with this one I worked really
way.

"If (coach) Peter Lundgren will stick around with me and wants to work with me for a bit longer, I think I can make it." The 25
Australian Open finals. Safin admitted he had begun to doubt whether he would win another Grand Slam. "I didn't expect tha
whatsoever," he said. "After the first final that I didn't win against Thomas Johansson (in 2002), I couldn't see myself winning
win it. "I just couldn't handle the pressure. You need to believe in yourself, and I didn't."

And after losing the first set 6-1 to Lleyton Hewitt in Sunday's final, Safin said he began to doubt himself again. "I am 25. I'm p
said. "It's like you go there and you lose first set 6-1, then you start to think: 'This is not my day. The way I'm playing is ridiculo
found it. I was like really much I was much happier than in 2000, that's for sure, because I get over it."
Safin plays down Wimbledon hopes

Newly-crowned Australian Open champion Marat Safin has ruled out any chance of winning Wimbledon in the future.

After losing in round one last year, Safin said he had "given up" on Wimbledon and winning his second Grand Slam title has no
that surface," he said. "Some people, they cannot play on clay. Some people, they cannot play on a hard court. Me, I can't pla
to win more Grand Slam titles. "It's a relief for me. Two grand slams, it's already something. But with this one I worked really
way.

"If (coach) Peter Lundgren will stick around with me and wants to work with me for a bit longer, I think I can make it." The 25
Australian Open finals. Safin admitted he had begun to doubt whether he would win another Grand Slam. "I didn't expect tha
whatsoever," he said. "After the first final that I didn't win against Thomas Johansson (in 2002), I couldn't see myself winning
win it. "I just couldn't handle the pressure. You need to believe in yourself, and I didn't."

And after losing the first set 6-1 to Lleyton Hewitt in Sunday's final, Safin said he began to doubt himself again. "I am 25. I'm p
said. "It's like you go there and you lose first set 6-1, then you start to think: 'This is not my day. The way I'm playing is ridiculo
found it. I was like really much I was much happier than in 2000, that's for sure, because I get over it."
Nadal races through his service game to put the pressure straight back onto Roddick.

Roddick hangs in on his serve to level matters but Nadal is making him fight for every point.

Nadal could be suffering a disappointment hangover from the previous game as he goes 0-30 down and then has to save a br
the Spaniard edges ahead in the set.

Roddick's serve is not firing as ferociously as usual and has to rely on his sheer competitive determination to stay in the set. T
grit pays off as he manages to hold.

Roddick still looks a bit sluggish but he attacks the net and is rewarded with a break point, which Nadal saves with a good first

There is a disruption in play as Roddick is upset about something in the crowd. The Spanish captain gets involved as does the
into support of Nadal and they go wild when Roddick loses the next point and goes break point down. Roddick saves the brea

The game passes the two-hour mark as Nadal holds serve to edge ahead in the third set.

Now Roddick has to defend a break point and he produces a characteristic ace to save it. It is immediately followed by anothe

Roddick is looking a little leaden-footed but does carve out a break point for himself. But he plays it poorly and Nadal avoids t

Roddick has gone off the boil and again struggles. He fails to get down properly for a low forehand volley and gives Nadal thre
rubber is level.

Nadal edges towards taking the second set with a comfortable hold.

Two good serves put Roddick 30-0 up but he then makes a couple of errors to find himself 30-40 down. He saves the break po

Roddick's level has dropped while Nadal is on a hot streak. The Spaniard includes a superb crosscourt winner off the back foo

Roddick double-faults twice and Nadal takes full advantage of the break point offered, powering a passing winner past Roddic

Nadal wins another tight game. Neither player has dipped from the high standard of play in the first set.

Nadal puts the American under pressure and Roddick saves a break point with a superb stop volley before going on to hold.

Nadal puts the disappointment of losing the first-set tiebreak to claim the opening game in the second.

Henman & Murray claim LTA awards

Tim Henman was named player of the year for 2004 by the Lawn Tennis Association at Wimbledon on Monday.

The Briton was recognised for the best year of his career, which saw him reach the semis at the French and US Opens. Scotlan
Futures event in Italy. And world number one Peter Norfolk won disabled player of the year after claiming his third US Open c

Great Britain's under 14 boys won the team of the year prize for their victory at the World Junior Tennis event in August. Hen
Federer, Andy Roddick and Andre Agassi. And the Briton is optimistic of surpassing his best effort of a fourth-round place at t
Melbourne so I'd love to be able to start next year by doing well at the Australian Open," Henman told his website. "That's wh
acclimatise while practising before the event and then will be guaranteed matches against the best players in the world. "I th
Connors' rallying cry for British tennis

"Do you have it in your heart? How much guts do you have? How much do you hate to lose?"

These are the questions Jimmy Connors will be asking of Britain's brightest tennis hopes in the months, and possibly years, to
with the Lawn Tennis Association after spending three days at the Elite Performance winter camp in La Manga. And the man
he hopes to convey. "You know, everybody hits the ball well and there's a very fine line between number one and number 10
how to win."

Connors is not the first great name to offer his services to the LTA - his long-time rival John McEnroe has repeatedly done the
gave a glowing recommendation to the work of LTA performance director David Felgate and his team. "Britain has a different
Connors. "That's something you don't find every day. Everybody talks a good game but not everybody puts that into effect. "T
like I've never seen before, especially over here. "This is not going to happen overnight, there are no miracle workers, but you
marked contrast to his relationship with tennis officials back in America. "I've had discussions with the USTA (United States Te
straight-talker and will be equally blunt and honest in his dealings with the LTA and the cream of Britain's young players. "If th

"If not, someone will come and take their place. There's only one number one spot and it's lonely up there, but it's got the be
suggestions that the Scot might be put under too much pressure too soon. "Tim Henman has a whole country on his shoulder
next level. "Someone's going to have to come and take over from him (Henman). If I was Andrew Murray, I'd embrace that. T
admit that the desire required of a champion has to come from within. "The passion I had, I don't know if you can find that,"
tennis court. "It was the most important thing in the world for me, and to do that something's got to be not right with you. Th
played tennis is what I am. You have to have that, you can't be moulded."

Roche 'turns down Federer offer'

Australian tennis coach Tony Roche has turned down an approach from Roger Federer to be the world number one's new ful

Melbourne's Herald-Sun said Roche, troubled by a hip complaint, did not want to travel full-time again. However, Roche is ha
his Australian Open crown. Federer has been without a coach since splitting with Peter Lundgren in 2003. Roche, a former Da
five Wimbledon doubles titles with John Newcombe.

He also coached former number one Ivan Lendl and Pat Rafter to Grand Slam victories and has worked with Australia's Lleyto
before Agassi confirmed he would play on in 2005. Federer was named Swiss sportsman of the year on Saturday, to add to th
Federer joins all-time greats

The last year has seen one player dominate men's tennis, and one country dominate the women's game.

Roger Federer became the first man since Mats Wilander in 1988 to win three Grand Slams in one season. And after Anastasi
at Wimbledon and the US Open. Meanwhile, Briton Tim Henman enjoyed his best year, while Greg Rusedski fought back supe
Masters Cup titles, and set about conquering new ground. The Swiss sounded warning of the dominance to come at the Aust

He ripped through the draw before beating Marat Safin in the final. Andy Roddick was the only player to put up any real resis
breathtaking. Federer again got the better of Hewitt in the season-ending Masters Cup. His victory in Houston proved to be h
Gustavo Kuerten at the French Open, and Roland Garros will be his main target in 2005.

There was also a surprise loss to the unheralded Tomas Berdych at the Olympic Games, which saw Chile dominate as Nicoals
trophy that looks beyond Federer is the Davis Cup, which was won by Spain in a 3-2 home success over the USA in Seville. Rod
in the all-important fourth rubber.

Henman broke new ground by reaching the semis on clay at the French Open - a stunning effort - and also at the US Open. A
defeat, but he remains optimistic of going further next year.

British number two Rusedski endured a rollercoaster year, returning to the circuit after being cleared of a doping offence in M
in the second half of the season to re-enter the top 50. The Russian women finally delivered on their long-recognised promise
the season-ending Fed Cup. But while the young Russians were on the way up, it was a different story for the Belgians and th
after Wimbledon taking her to number one ahead of Amelie Mauresmo, whose Grand Slam drought goes on. The year started

A virus ruined the rest of Henin-Hardenne's year, although she was fit enough to win Olympic gold, but Clijsters had an even m
with Lleyton Hewitt, and will be happy to see the year end. In their absence, Myskina thrashed Elena Dementieva in a historic
captivated SW19, showing nerves of steel as she battled past Davenport and Serena Williams to take the title.

Davenport was a strong favourite for the US Open but, hampered by injury, lost to the powerful and unflappable Kuznetsova
latter's wayward serve becoming one of the talking points of the year. With the Russians still improving, the likes of Henin-Ha
2005. And it may take their compatriot Safin to challenge Federer on the men's side.

Philippoussis doubt over Open bid

Mark Philippoussis is almost certain to miss the Australian Open after suffering a groin injury during the Hopman Cup loss to t

The 28-year-old suffered two tears to the adductor muscle and was unable to play in the deciding mixed doubles. He is now u
strengthen it enough to cope with repetitive days of tennis," said Hopman Cup doctor Hamish Osborne. "It would be very unl

"The injury is more common in Australian Rules football, and a fit footballer would normally take three to four weeks to recov
throughout his career but is still holding out slim hope that he can make the event. "It's something I'll have to go by feel. I'll st
doesn't kill you makes you stronger. I know I can come back from this and that's all that matters.

- Former world number two Tommy Haas is also a doubt for the Australian Open after picking up a thigh injury playing for Ge
Guillermo Coria 7-5 2-2. He played one more game, but his movement was hampered and he quit.
Slovakia reach Hopman Cup final

Slovakia will play Argentina in the final of the Hopman Cup after beating Group B rivals the Netherlands 3-0.

Daniela Hantuchova defeated Michaella Krajicek 6-4 6-2 to give the Slovaks the perfect start before Dutchman Peter Wessels
already booked their place in the final for the second year running. Argentina claimed top spot in Group A with three wins fro

Meghann Shaughnessy lost the opening match against Alicia Molik but James Blake levelled the tie with a 6-3 6-4 win over Pa
then beat Molik and Baccanello in a tense mixed doubles contest to take the win. Hantuchova, who did not win a Hopman Cu
matches. "I feel like it's really deserved this time as I've helped Dominik to get through," she said. "I think if I keep going the w
singles, even the first one, which was a really high standard. "You can't ask for a better preparation than to play a few matche

Dent continues Adelaide progress

American Taylor Dent reached the final of the Australian hardcourt event in Adelaide with a crushing 6-1 6-1 win over Argenti

Dent will meet Swede Joachim Johansson on Sunday after the second seed survived a tense tie-break to defeat Belgium's Oliv
crowd support on Saturday. "It feels like home for me, because Jaslyn lives here," said Johansson. Rochus was leading 5-4 in t
away. "It was so close - one mistake like this and the match is over, it's tough. For me, it was clearly out," Rochus said.

Moya sidesteps Davis Cup in 2005

Carlos Moya has chosen not to help Spain try and defend the Davis Cup crown they won in Seville in November.

Moya led Spain to victory over the USA but wants to focus on the Grand Slams in 2005, although insists he will return to the D
difficult decision to concentrate on the regular circuit," said Moya. "They know that after this season they can count on me ag
events after spending much of the last eight years in the top 10. "At the age of 29 I have set some tough goals in my professio
"Since the Davis Cup in Seville I have been working on my condition as well as technical and medical aspects of my game whic

Moya began 2005 with victory in the Chennai Open on Sunday.

Ntini returns, his first delivery down the legside and easily turned for a single by Vaughan.

Geraint Jones picks up a short one from Pollock and the ball soars over the ropes for the maximum to open the wicketkeeper

Vaughan rocks back to guide a forcing shot for a much needed boundary off Boje.

Flintoff is beaten for pace by Pollock and his hook shot loops up tamely off the splice to square leg to leave his team in turmo

Vaughan appears to lose sight of a short one from Pollock, and having planned to leave it fends it awkwardly with the glove, b

Vaughan is able to pinch a single as his gentle push on the off side defeats the fielder on the bounce.

Thorpe is trapped plumb in front by the metronomic Pollock.

Boje resumes after the interval, Vaughan crashes one into Jacques Rudolph at silly point but slices the next ball through gully

England 58-3

Vaughan and Thorpe get through safely to lunch but know that much more will be required this afternoon.

Vaughan, badly needing to play a major innings, strikes a fluent boundary off Boje.

Kallis switches ends and produces a maiden as England look towards the safety of the luncheon interval.

New man Graham Thorpe clips a single from the final ball of the over.

The single proves effective as key man Strauss takes the strike and lofts a catch to extra cover, where Ntini swoops low to cap

Boje finds some early spin with his third delivery and catches the edge of Vaughan's bat as the England captain pushes forwar

Kallis is replaced after two overs and the spin of Nicky Boje is tried 13 minutes before lunch.

There is nothing to stop a Strauss cut shot which brings up the England 50 in the 24th over.

Strauss is denied a certain boundary when his pull shot strikes square-leg umpire Simon Taufel.
Lee runs through Windies

VB Series match 6, Adelaide: Australia 269-8 beat West Indies 196 by 73 runs

Paceman Pedro Collins took his first one-day five-wicket haul but Australia wriggled out of trouble to post a healthy 269-8 in A
West Indies folded for 196 in the 45th over. Collins (5-43) removed four top-order batsmen before the Aussies recovered. Sim
(44) and Brett Lee (38) put on 73 runs, unbroken, for the ninth wicket in less than 12 overs. Gillespie, who scored his maiden T
and a six.

Katich and Gillespie were two of three changes to the Aussie side, with Brad Hogg joining them at the expense of Shane Wats
Australia last Friday in Brisbane until rain stopped play. Collins struck twice in the third over after the home side had won the
Hayden caught behind off a bottom edge before ousting skipper Ricky Ponting (caught) for a duck to reduce them to 24-2. Mi
Collins, and Darren Lehmann perished in the paceman's next over to a catch behind the stumps. Andrew Symonds, promoted
caught behind off Wavell Hinds for 31 off 49 balls.

The Windies were on top with the middle-order exposed, but Katich and Brad Haddin made sure they failed to push home the
was not until Lee and Gillespie were brought together by Collins' removal of Katich in the 39th over that Australia really got o
their run chase. Lee struck with the last ball of his first over and the first ball of his second thanks to catches behind the wicke
Chanderpaul then added 92 for the third wicket in 22 overs. But Sarwan feathered an edge off Hogg before a brilliant direct h

The momentum had gone and the wickets tumbled as Marlon Samuels drilled Lehmann to extra cover, Brian Lara gave Lee a
as West Indies left the Adelaide Oval still hunting their first win after four VB Series matches. Afterwards, Lee said: "I always t
that. "I've done a lot of bowling in the nets with my training partner Andrew Symonds, working on different balls. "I've felt th

Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden, Michael Clarke, Darren Lehmann, Andrew Symonds, Simon Katich, Brad Haddin, Brad Hogg,

Brian Lara, Chris Gayle, Wavell Hinds, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Marlon Samuels, Dwayne Bravo, Courtney
Youhana leads from front

Second Test, Melbourne, day one (close): Pakistan 318-6 v Australia

Stand-in captain Yousuf Youhana led the way in Melbourne, smashing a superb ton and putting on 192 with Younis Khan. But
Jason Gillespie, the pick of the bowlers with 3-72, then ousted Younis and Shoaib Malik in quick succession. Younis was caugh

And the paceman struck again in his next over when Malik was caught at slip by Ricky Ponting for seven, Pakistan losing three
close of play. Earlier, Salman Butt hit his maiden Test half-century as he put on 85 for the first wicket with Imran Farhat.

Michael Kasprowicz claimed the only wicket to fall before lunch when he had Farhat brilliantly caught by Ponting at slip for 20
for two. Butt's brave knock came to an end when he was run out by a superb throw from Michael Clarke going for a second ru
captain for the injured Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Younis steadied the ship. Australia, who were lifted before the start of play by n
Perth by 491 runs. Overall, Pakistan have only won four times in 27 Tests played in Australia, although two of those successes

J L Langer, M L Hayden, R T Ponting (capt), D R Martyn D S Lehmann, M J Clarke, A C Gilchrist (wkt), S K Warne J N Gillespie, M

Salman Butt, Imran Farhat, Younis Khan Yousuf Youhana (Capt), Yasir Hameed, Shoaib Malik, Abdul Razzaq Kamran Akmal (W

R E Koertzen and J W Lloyds

England duo hit centuries

Second Test, Durban, day three (close): England: 139 & 281-1 v South Africa 332

Both hit 132 - Strauss was unbeaten - as England finished day three 88 ahead on 281-1, having started it 163 behind. It was th
Pollock it was the country's fifth best ever. Mark Butcher was Strauss's partner at stumps in Durban, unbeaten on one. Tresco
272 balls faced. It was the duo's fourth stand of 150 or more and their best return in nine Tests together, bettering the 190 th
started the day on 30-0 and seemingly with a mountain to climb. But, allied to some loose bowling, the vagaries of the pitch w

The first-wicket pair was circumspect in the opening 30 minutes of play, but soon feasted on the tripe served up by Dale Stey
hook at will and Trescothick to take him for three successive boundaries through the off-side. The transformation of England
entire first-innings effort. South Africa looked seriously bereft of options in the afternoon, with skipper Graeme Smith fruitles

Pollock was the only one to bother England's rampant openers, beating the outside edge of both batsmen. But there was to b
England's previous best in Durban - 160 by Wally Hammond and Bob Wyatt 73 years ago - fell away, and 31 runs later a new r
England's opening wicket had done so since Graeme Gooch and Mike Atherton against Australia in 1991.

The openers reached triple figures within moments of each other, Trescothick for the ninth time and Strauss for the fourth - a
mid-wicket for six and Strauss striking successive fours in the same over. South Africa's only hope looked to be the new ball, a
catch behind late on. Strauss, chanceless all day, next over gave South Africa a sniff when edging Ntini low down to second sli
of schedule, and play will start 30 minutes early on day four.

Graeme Smith (captain), Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Rudolph, Jacques Kallis, Martin van Jaarsveld, Hashim Amla, AB de Villiers,

Marcus Trescothick, Andrew Strauss, Mark Butcher, Michael Vaughan (captain), Graham Thorpe, Andrew Flintoff, Geraint Jon

D Hair, S Taufel.
England eye win after Thorpe ton

Second Test, Durban, day four (close): England: 139 & 570-7d v South Africa 332 & 21-1

Thorpe shared in stands of 114 with Andrew Flintoff (60) and 132 with Geraint Jones (73) after England had lost three for 21 i
21-1 at stumps, with Matthew Hoggard trapping home skipper Graeme Smith lbw for five. To win, South Africa will have to br
On day three South Africa waited all day for a wicket, but three came along at once when play resumed on the fourth. Makha
stump which was pouched by Martin van Jaarsveld at third slip.

The prolific opener had added only four runs to his overnight 132 when departing. Ntini followed up with the wicket of Micha
10, taking his four-innings aggregate this series to 53. Shaun Pollock was doing a fine job tying up his end, and England soon f
leading by just 121 with the middle-order exposed, but the lack of depth in South Africa's attack gave England the chance to s
England reasserted thanks to Thorpe and his partnerships with Flintoff and Jones. Flintoff, careful to avoid a pair of ducks, wa
the all-rounder ended the first session with a full-blooded cover-drive that sent Steyn to the fence, and he carried on in simila
leg, and Flintoff emulated Thorpe by reaching 50 with a boundary. South Africa's only strike of the afternoon came when Smi
England's scoring rate increased when Jones came to the crease, and he complemented Thorpe's grafting approach with som
quick runs prior to the declaration, joining Thorpe in top-edging the hapless Steyn over the keeper's head on numerous occas
holed out at long-on to give Boje his sole strike. Ashley Giles, who will be fit to bowl in day five after suffering back spasms, ca

Graeme Smith (captain), Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Rudolph, Jacques Kallis, Martin van Jaarsveld, Hashim Amla, AB de Villiers,

Marcus Trescothick, Andrew Strauss, Mark Butcher, Michael Vaughan (captain), Graham Thorpe, Andrew Flintoff, Geraint Jon

D Hair, S Taufel.

Sri Lanka cancel tour

Sri Lanka have cancelled their cricket tour of New Zealand following the tsunami disaster that has ravaged the country, it has

The tour had been put on hold after the first one-day international game was played on 26 December, the same day the tidal
Wednesday decided to pull out. "We fully understand the decision," said ICC chief executive Malcolm Speed. The latest death
stated: "The Sri Lankan cricketers have always stood by the people of this country in good times and bad times. "The cancella
"The impact of the tsunami on Sri Lanka has been devastating. "In this situation where two of our members have agreed to p
return to their families and the series will be replayed at a date in the future to be confirmed." The tour, comprising one-day

None of the Sri Lanka squad lost family members in the disaster, but the mothers of Sanath Jayasuriya and Upul Chandana ar
minutes of being caught up in the huge tidal waves which swept across the Sri Lankan coastline at Galle. "I missed the wave b
early part of the tour due to injury. New Zealand Cricket chief executive Martin Snedden said: "We will now give the Sri Lanka
events in Sri Lanka has unfolded it has become more difficult for the Sri Lankan team to remain in New Zealand."
Australia take control

Third Test, Sydney, day three (close): Australia 568; Pakistan 304 & 67-1

They put on 153 for the fifth wicket before Gilchrist fell to spinner Danish Kaneria for 113, a 120-ball innings which included fi
for figures of 7-188. Australia were all out for 568, a lead of 264, with Pakistan 67-1 at stumps. The home side were anxious to
155, but was content to play second fiddle to Gilchrist, who set about the bowling in his customary forthright manner. He pas
spectacular style with two sixes off Mohammad Asif to reach 92 and then two successive fours off Shahid Afridi. His captain, m
passed Greg Chappell's 182 and was 196 not out at tea. He had lost Gilchrist by then, one of three stumping victims for Kamra
200 arrived off 311 balls with a boundary off Naved, but the bowler gained his revenge when the Australian skipper chopped

He is now one of only 13 batsmen in history to score four or more double centuries in Tests - and only the third Australian aft
Watson caught for 31 off Kaneria, who ended the innings with the wicket of Shane Warne for 16. It was the third time the 24-
needed a good start to their second innings and Yasir Hameed and Salman Butt began with a flurry of boundaries. They put o
Stuart MacGill and was caught at slip by Warne for 21. Hameed progressed to 40 not out off 46 balls, and new partner Younis

Matthew Hayden, Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting (capt), Damien Martyn, Michael Clarke, Shane Watson, Adam Gilchrist (wkt), S

Salman Butt, Imran Farhat, Yasir Hameed, Younis Khan, Yousuf Youhana (capt), Asim Kamal, Kamran Akmal (wkt), Mohammad
Australia complete sweep

Third Test, Sydney, day four (result): Australia 568 & 62-1 bt Pakistan 304 & 325

Pakistan, continuing on 67-1 overnight, posted 325 all out in their second innings and the home team quickly scored the 62 ru
always in control after building a first-innings lead of 264. And on a turning wicket Shane Warne took 4-111 and Stuart MacGi
behind the home team's first-innings total. It seemed at one point as though stubborn resistance would limit the visitors to th
swung the balance of the session in their favour with two wickets in two balls. Yousef Youhana was bowled by MacGill for 30

After lunch Shahid Afridi was run out after a typically aggressive innings and his dimissal was sparked a fall of five wickets for
to 270-9 after steadily losing wickets throughout the afternoon session. Shortly before the scheduled tea interval Australia cla
Asif, who scored his first runs in Test cricket, put on 55 for the last wicket to set Australia a meagre target for victory. Jason La
boundaries. With victory just four runs away Langer was bowled sweeping around his legs and new batsman Ricky Ponting sm

Matthew Hayden, Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting (capt), Damien Martyn, Michael Clarke, Shane Watson, Adam Gilchrist (wkt), S

Salman Butt, Imran Farhat, Yasir Hameed, Younis Khan,Yousuf Youhana (capt), Asim Kamal, Kamran Akmal (wkt), Mohammad

Australia complete series sweep

Third Test, Sydney, day four (result): Australia 568 & 62-1 bt Pakistan 304 & 325

Pakistan, continuing on 67-1 overnight, posted 325 all out in their second innings and the home team quickly scored the 62 ru
always in control after building a first-innings lead of 264. And on a turning wicket Shane Warne took 4-111 and Stuart MacGi
behind the home team's first-innings total. It seemed at one point as though stubborn resistance would limit the visitors to th
swung the balance of the session in their favour with two wickets in two balls. Yousef Youhana was bowled by MacGill for 30

After lunch Shahid Afridi was run out after a typically aggressive innings and his dimissal was sparked a fall of five wickets for
to 270-9 after steadily losing wickets throughout the afternoon session. Shortly before the scheduled tea interval Australia cla
Asif, who scored his first runs in Test cricket, put on 55 for the last wicket to set Australia a meagre target for victory. Jason La
boundaries. With victory just four runs away Langer was bowled sweeping around his legs and new batsman Ricky Ponting sm

Matthew Hayden, Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting (capt), Damien Martyn, Michael Clarke, Shane Watson, Adam Gilchrist (wkt), S

Salman Butt, Imran Farhat, Yasir Hameed, Younis Khan,Yousuf Youhana (capt), Asim Kamal, Kamran Akmal (wkt), Mohammad
England pondering line-up

First one-day international, Johannesburg South Africa v England

Play starts Sunday, 0800 GMT

Ian Bell, Kevin Pietersen and Kabir Ali all performed so well in the warm-up win over South Africa A as to give captain Michae
players are still talking about his innings so it must have been special. "You certainly want any guy who can clear the ropes in
character, someone who is very confident and doesn't mind having a word. I like that. "But Sunday's a big selection to make b
new players on Sunday and it will be a big opportunity for them to try to establish themselves in the team. "It will also be a gr

Bell anchored England's win in Kimberley with an accomplished unbeaten 87. His best chance of playing would perhaps be to
shown long-term patience with Solanki even though he has almost always been inconsistent. Kabir, who took 4-40 on Thursd
warm-up. Vaughan predicted the seven-match one-day series would be tightly contested, even though South Africa have falle
home, who bat very deep. They've got so many all-rounders. "But their record is not so great in the last year, so that's someth

South Africa captain Graeme Smith defended his team's recent record, despite the fact they have won just two of their last 13
our own conditions we've got a good record in one-day cricket." The captain confirmed he would open the batting with Hersc
of batsman Kevin Pietersen, who was born in KwaZulu-Natal. "He enjoys the attention, but we will just have to knock him ove
banned if we abuse him."

M Vaughan (capt), Kabir Ali, J Anderson, G Batty, I Bell, P Collingwood, A Giles, D Gough, S Harmison, M Hoggard, G Jones (wk

G Smith (capt), A Bacher, N Boje, M Boucher (wkt), AB de Villiers, H Gibbs, A Hall, J Kallis, J Kemp, C Langeveldt, A Nel, M Ntini
Bangladesh build platform

First Test, Chittagong, day two (stumps): Bangladesh 488 v Zimbabwe 84-4

They began by extending their overnight 280-4 by 208 in just over two sessions, for their highest Test total of 488. Rajin Saleh
Khaled Mashud and Mashrafe bin Mortaza. Zimbabwe then lost four wickets inside 21 overs before a slight recovery. The hom
match in 2000 and 416 in the West Indies last year. They suffered an early setback when Aftab Ahmed was lbw to Christophe

But Saleh, who was 60 not out overnight, progressed to his best score in Tests before departing with the total on 341. Mashu
denied a half century when he became 18-year-old Graeme Cremer's first Test victim. Leg-spinner Cremer found the edge an
niceties as Rafique and Mortaza tore into tiring bowlers.

In contrast to the opening session in which only 66 runs were scored, the duo went along at six an over before Rafique was ca
40 not out at tea. Mpofu bowled Tapash Baisya for six in the first over following the re-start, but Mortaza responded by hoisti
ball from Cremer into the hands of Vusi Sibanda at backward point. Mpofu finished with 4-109 for the Zimbabweans in his de
balls before he was caught at slip in the eighth over. Vusimuzi Sibanda scored all of his 12 runs in boundaries before he was tr
Barney Rogers was more watchful, taking 28 deliveries to open his account, but he was run out at the non-striker's end when
fours in his 28, sharing an unbroken 25 with Brendon Taylor who hit two fours in his eight not out, as three boundaries came

Habibul Bashar (captain), Khaled Mashud, Nafis Iqbal, Javed Omar, Mohammed Ashraful, Rajin Saleh, Aftab Ahmed, Mohamm

Tatenda Taibu (captain), Elton Chigumbura, Stuart Matsikenyeri, Barney Rogers, Vusimuzi Sibanda, Hamilton Masakadza, Bren
Wijewardena (Sri), Asad Rauf (Pkn)

Kenya cricket boss fights sacking

Kenya Cricket Association president Sharad Ghai has obtained a court order preventing his dismissal by the government over

Ghai was accused of failing to account for sponsorship money, resolve player disputes or hold regular elections. Sports Minist
months before new elections take place. But the order prevents Kalua moving in for 21 days, pending a judicial review. Ghai i

He has refused to hand over the office keys to Kalua and was angered when the interim committee broke into the building un
protested. "There was supposed to be a date and time set for office handover, and this is what is expected to happen in any c
against the board. In 2002 they disbanded the committee, but a court reinstated the officials.
Union to contest Vaughan penalty

The hefty fine imposed on England captain Michael Vaughan during the fourth Test against South Africa is to be challenged b

Vaughan lost his match fee of £5,500 after referee Clive Lloyd ruled he was wrong to complain about "inconsistent" umpiring
executive Richard Bevan said: "To impose a 100% fine is ridiculous and taken out of all proportion."

Vaughan was charged with a breach of level two of the International Cricket Council's code of conduct. There are four levels o
three or four offences have the opportunity to contest. "If they are going to impose the maximum fine they must allow an ap
sense we will consider legal action under European Laws." Vaughan made the comments after umpires Steve Bucknor and Ale
time, wanted to go on.

"The ICC expect players to promote the game and talk to TV and the media and all Michael did was answer some questions h
some in consistent umpiring. He certainly did not bring cricket into disrepute. "It strikes me the umpires have had a poor Test

Vaughan endures day to forget

This was England's worst day for a long time, and was capped by captain Michael Vaughan being fined 100% of his match fee

Match referee Clive Lloyd's decision followed criticism from Vaughan of the umpires' handling of the bad light decisions on th

The bowling throughout the day was awful and, two balls from the close, Geraint Jones dived directly in front of Marcus Tresc
of reaching a century, Michael Vaughan must have been horrified by the manner in which his bowlers responded. Briefly the
clear blue sky which made batting easier, the direction of Steve Harmison in particular was woeful. His first eight overs conce
down the leg-side and even Matthew Hoggard was below his best, four wickets notwithstanding.

Understandably James Anderson was rusty having not played a match since 4 December but Harmison's day was made comp
separated in the 16th over when Smith was trapped lbw to Hoggard for 29. This has been a disappointing series so far for the
on the ground when umpire Bucknor finally raised his painfully slow finger. The bowling was still erratic, but Hoggard struck a
catch that dislocated his right thumb.

Jacques Kallis again looked very well set, and the stand with Gibbs during the afternoon was looking ominous until Hoggard fo
33. Boeta Dippenaar is one of the least exciting batsmen currently in Test cricket, and after 37 minutes, he fell to a low catch
reluctant to go. TV replays - which are only used now when the umpires are unsighted - would probably have given the batsm
DeVilliers joined Gibbs, who was now strangely becalmed and only 65 runs were scored in the afternoon session, but after De
and a half hours. The second new ball failed to force an immediate breakthrough as Gibbs and Boucher launched a counter a
Sri Lankans cleared of misconduct

Two Sri Lanka cricketers have been cleared of misconduct dating back to the ICC Champions Trophy in 2004.

Avishka Gunawardene and Kaushal Lokuarachchi were both the subject of an official disciplinary inquiry after allegations of d
Southampton which led to Sri Lanka exiting the tournament early. But the disciplinary panel could find no evidence against th
and there was absolutely no evidence to substantiate the article's allegations." Gunawardene, 27, a hard-hitting opener, and
Sri Lanka's tour of Pakistan in October.

Kallis keen on Glamorgan return

South Africa's star batsman Jacques Kallis says he would relish a return to county cricket with Glamorgan.

"I want a break after the West Indies tour, but in the future I want to return to county cricket and Glamorgan are my first cho
the number-one batsman in the world after a stunning year, spent a successful season with the Welsh county in 1999. He has
to do with his side 2-1 down heading into the final Test in Pretoria. "We're under a lot more pressure than England, but we're
last series between the sides, now it's our turn to come out and win the game. "Losing the last Test was very frustrating. The
"We'd played good cricket until then and felt we'd had the chance to win the game." Despite his desire to return to county cr
called for a reassessment of the fixture calendar. He is keen to carry on with his bowling, though, and still sees his future as a
years yet."
England victory tainted by history

As England attempt to secure a series victory in South Africa, they will do so at the venue for a previous match which became

South Africa's meeting with England at Centurion Park in January 2000 was thought to have been an enthralling spectacle, wi
short months to reveal the unfortunate truth; that a bookmaker had given home skipper Hansie Cronje money - and a leathe
was subsequently found guilty of match-fixing and banned from Test cricket for life. Opening the bowling for England was An
and South Africa just wanted to make a game of it. That's what I thought. "At the time you don't think anything of it but then
captain Nasser Hussain put the South Africans in after winning the toss, and was given an early reward, of a purely cricketing

Cronje also fell to Gough for a duck as the home side closed the first day 155-6. The next three days were then wiped out com
with a suggestion to manufacture a result. South Africa had already secured the series having won in Johannesburg and Cape
was for each side to forfeit an innings each, leaving the tourists with a run chase, so South Africa reached 248-8 on the final m
explained to BBC Sport. "Hansie came up to us in the changing room on the last day and said: 'I'm keen to forfeit the innings a

"He asked the team and there was a mixed reception. "Some of the guys felt we didn't want to give England a chance of winn
maybe we know why in hindsight, to go for it but there was quite a bit of resistance and some of the guys didn't think it was a
a very good gesture in the spirit of the game. "The game had meandered along and all of a sudden it was like an old fashioned
Cronje's part had been simply to ensure against a draw - it led to a fascinating cricket match.

England needed six from the final seven balls and Yorkshire tailenders Chris Silverwood and Darren Gough both hit boundarie
argue it was good for people who had been frustrated having not watched any cricket and suddenly got a great last day. "But
you don't give Test matches away, or create the opportunity to make it easy to win one." Tufnell has favourable memories of
bloke," the spinner said. "He always came and said 'Hi' and seemed a very intelligent captain, a good competitor and a good a
that what he did cannot be condoned in any circumstances," he said. "But my view is he did a huge amount for my career. "I
judgemental."

Ashes defeat 'won't hurt Aussies'

Australia great Rodney Marsh says it would do his country no harm if they were to return from England in September having

"In the big picture, England need to be strong," said Marsh, who steps down as director of England's national academy in Sep
cannot understand that, that's tough," he told the Daily Telegraph newspaper. Marsh flew out on Wednesday to Dubai as coa
employed by the England and Wales Cricket Board as academy director since 2001, and subsequently as a selector. "By the ti
though the players are the ones who have done the work," he said. Australia have won the past eight Ashes series and are th
Pakistan have the edge - Mushtaq

Mushtaq Ahmed believes Pakistan are on the verge of their first Test series win in India for 18 years.

Imran Khan was the last Pakistan captain to return home victorious, and India are favourites for the three-Test series starting
the confidence they would have gained from playing Australia. "They showed in the one-day series they had learned from the
beating Australia in a group game and advancinhg to the finals at the expense of Champions Trophy winners West Indies. "I k
played against the best team in the world will serve them well in India. "I think they will play with more freedom and I think t

Mushtaq, who took 185 wickets in a 52-Test career for Pakistan, is not concerned about the absence of fast bowler Shoaib Ak
the other bowlers did a great job against Australia," he said. "I think Danish Kaneria will play a big role, as will Mohammad Sa
shared by former captain Mushtaq Mohammad, who told the Press Trust of India the squad is the "weakest-ever" Pakistan ha
unavoidable as there was ban on cricketers who had signed for Kerry Packer," he said. "I am sorry to say that this Pakistan tea
They have faulty techniques, are too flashy, have no footwork, no temperament and consequently they are inconsistent. "I de
the people of Pakistan. "But sadly, cricket is not played with emotions. It is played with talent and skill. "I hope my assessmen

New Zealand to step up security

New Zealand cricket officials are to review security after Australia players were hit by missiles during Saturday's opening one-

The match was stopped several times after Australian fielders complained they had been hit by plastic bottles. New Zealand C
number of security guards, it was the fact they needed to be more proactive," he said. Australia captain Ricky Ponting compla
security guys around the players on the boundary," he said. However, Kiwi coach John Bracewell accused Australia of using th

He claimed the missile-throwing was no different to the treatment his players got in Australia. Former Australia skipper Steve
years ago. "I think the tactical awareness as learned by Steve Waugh has been passed on," Bracewell said. Despite being hit b
16. "Glenn was outstanding and we just did enough to win," Ponting said. "It's a very hard place to win over here and we foun
rescued the match. "We were out of it, came back really well - Hamish was outstanding - but we just lost our way towards the
Shoaib ruled out of Test series

Fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar will miss Pakistan's Test series in India because he is still troubled by a hamstring injury and cannot

He suffered the injury in Australia last month and says his recovery will take another four to five weeks. The squad for India w
less than 24 hours after he was fined £265 for breaching the terms of his contract in Australia. He was accused of visiting nigh
against the decision of a disciplinary panel. However, Shoaib insisted his decision to pull out of the Test series had nothing to
said. "It is an honest decision since I don't want to go half fit to India." Shoaib's absence will be a huge blow to Pakistan's chan
one-day internationals which follow the Test matches. "I have informed the Pakistan Cricket Board of my decision and will inf

"I would love to play the one-day series provided the team needs me," he added. The 29-year-old, known as the Rawalpindi E
has been poor and he has missed 30 of the 66 Tests Pakistan have played since he made his debut in November 1997. Shoaib
international cricket nowadays. But critics point to the fact that he has increased his workload by agreeing contracts with Eng
half of the 2005 season following a tour to the West Indies. Pakistan, meanwhile, are awaiting fitness reports on fellow seame
Another paceman, Umar Gul, will definitely not make the trip because he is still undergoing rehabilitation following stress fra

ICC ponders one-day alterations

The rules of one-day cricket could be changed to allow the fielding side to take two wickets off a single ball.

A striking batsman could be dismissed lbw or caught and his partner run out. The International Cricket Council is also conside
Instead, the batting side would choose three different slots of five overs when only two fielders would be permitted to cover
to inject interest into the one-day game which the former India captain says has become "predictable". "We've looked at a do
out lbw and the ball ricochets off to gully and the fielder picks it up and throws at the non-striker's end, so you have two dism
in Melbourne.

ICC relaxes bowling regulations

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has agreed to relax its rules on bowling actions in a bid to defuse one of the most divis

Bowlers will be allowed to straighten their arms by up to 15 degrees - the amount visible to the naked eye. But any bowler fo
"This new process gives the game a sensible way forward," said ICC chief executive Malcolm Speed on Saturday. "This issue h
people around the world based on fear and ignorance and I've no doubt we will see them all again this time."

The 15-degree limit follows an extensive research programme conducted by biomechanics experts. Previously, the levels wer
throwing after several top international players, including Sri Lankan Muttiah Muralitharan, were reported for suspect actions

An expert panel comprising Aravinda de Silva, Angus Fraser, Michael Holding, Tony Lewis, Tim May and David Richardson fou
whether their action was legal or otherwise were murky and unworkable. "These recommendations have come from people
cricket committee chairman Sunil Gavaskar.
Holding slams Twenty20 'rubbish'

West Indies great Michael Holding has branded Twenty20 cricket "rubbish" as its international future is debated.

Holding refused to watch last month's Twenty20 match between Australia A and Pakistan in Adelaide. He told The Voice: "It s
good cricket? "It might have a place in domestic cricket but should never be introduced as an international competition."

The International Cricket Council chief executives' committee is to discuss the new format, which has proved a massive succe
three hours, was first launched in county cricket in 2002. It has since taken off domestically in South Africa, and Australia are
Australia next month, and the Aussies are to play England at the Rose Bowl in June. However, Holding has told his television e
youngsters to watch the game but not to copy the players' techniques?" he continued. "There is nothing good about Twenty2

Pakistan 'to host next Asia Cup'

Pakistan are to host their first Asia Cup one-day tournament next March, according to Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Shaha

Khan told the Reuters agency a decision had been made at Monday's meeting of the Asian Cricket Council in Dubai. He said In
feature. Six teams, including Hong Kong, played in the eighth Asia Cup, in Sri Lanka last year, the hosts triumphing. Pakistan h
with neighbours India.

Windies women in optimistic mood

West Indies are hopeful of making an impression at the Women's World Cup in South Africa despite financial problems which

"Our major strength is our bowling, which tends to be very, very tight," said coach Ann Browne-John. "The batting is sound an
very strong unit." They will play holders New Zealand in their first game on 22 March.

All eight teams will face each other under a league format, with the top four then progressing to the semi-finals. Bad weather
weeks, which will begin on 19 February. They last played international cricket in India and Pakistan last year, winning the latte
women's cricket is all about and how we should go about playing the game. "I think, with that experience behind us, we shou
USA cricket placed under threat

World cricket bosses have threatened to pull out of a plan to spread the game to the US because of poor organisation.

A letter from the ICC to the US Cricket Association was leaked to a website. "We have never seen a sporting organisation that
whether the current administration of USACA can play any constructive role in taking the game forward in the United States."
have brought full one-day internationals involving leading teams to the country. The revenue gained was to fund a developm
and Australia in September. The letter, signed by ICC president Ehsan Mani and chief executive Malcolm Speed, was addresse
from you that indicate that USACA has plunged into further disarray. "Further, we have witnessed the abysmal performance o
countries that would like to replace USA as the preferred partner of ICC to deliver international cricket matches."

The USACA has until 1 February to sign a memorandum of understanding over Project USA, with the ICC threatening to move
one-day series involving Australia, Pakistan and India last August. Morocco and the United Arab Emirates are both non-Test-p
in the US has grown massively over the past decade to over 16,000 and is now larger than anywhere outside the 10 Test-play
potential audience for pay-per-view television. Mani made a US expansion one of his key aims when he came to office, but pl
ICC spokesman told BBC Sport: "The letter was not seeking to influence domestic governance - it was simply expressing a view

England fail to finish job again

England have done their best throughout this series to suggest that they are vulnerable and, on a rain-hit third day at Centuri

When Michael Vaughan horribly mis-pulled Shaun Pollock to square leg for a four-ball duck, England had lost three tame wick
should have been doing their utmost to close it down. The first to go was Marcus Trescothick who was run out thanks to a mi
he drove Makhaya Ntini to straight mid off. But Strauss suddenly changed his mind and as Trescothick tried desperately to reg
three overs later when he was caught behind down the leg side for a single. Key glared at Umpire Bucknor when he raised his

Four balls later, Vaughan was caught and England were reeling on 29-3. Andrew Strauss then appeared completely to lose tou
handers scratched about, barely laying bat on ball, but somehow they survived, despite some very close lbw appeals. They m
his off stump from Andre Nel and edged to Boucher for 44. Moments later, lightening drove the players from the ground. Tim
Africans to win the match from here. But England's fallibility, and their growing tendency to allow the opposition a second ch
series in the summer. But, being completely honest, England will have to improve enormously on their efforts on this tour eve
Cricket coach moves on after tsunami

When the tsunami crashed onto the Sri Lankan coastline, cricket coach Stephen Jones was in the middle of catching practice.

Within minutes the entire playing area at the Galle stadium was covered by water, but Jones and the boys of the Harrow Scho
Jones is still coming to terms with the experience. But he must do so whilst concentrating on his next coaching assignment to
memory of events in Galle is still "a blur". He told BBC Sport: "We were about half an hour from starting our game and were w
them anywhere else on the field we would have been in trouble. "I remember the level of noise going up and a colleague's w
locals came up to me and told me to get off the field. "It probably took only five minutes, maybe 10 minutes, for the water to

The Harrow party took refuge in a viewing area next to the changing rooms which proved high enough. "The boys were terrifi
one of them had panicked it might just have set off a domino effect and we could have been in trouble. "If it had happened a
together as a team counted in our favour - the team ethic of looking out for each other really came to the fore." The 49-year-
of the Women's World Cup, which South Africa is hosting, and the need to do his utmost to focus fully on helping a team whi

"I'm aware of the fact that perhaps women's cricket here is a little bit more in its infancy than in other countries, there's a litt
elevate women's cricket here to a brand new level," he said. "Perhaps I'm going to be a bit more relaxed about it than I might
and it's important for the girls to make a good go of it, and make it a special occasion."

Pietersen handed one-day call-up

Kevin Pietersen has been added to the England squad for the forthcoming one-day series in South Africa.

The Hampshire batsman, who was born in South Africa, made his England debut in Zimbabwe last November. "It is prudent to
selectors David Graveney. "His inclusion will give the captain and coach another option if the side requires a different balance
provincial cricket with KwaZulu-Natal. He was a prolific scorer in four seasons with Nottinghamshire and was the star of the E
came on the controversial tour to Zimbabwe, where he showed his potential with an innings of 77 not out off 76 balls in the s
whose skipper Graeme Smith accused Pietersen of running out "when things got tough" in a magazine interview last autumn.
that South Africa went through a transformation that wasimportant for our country. "We had to come from apartheid and m
cricketers haveemerged." The one-day series starts in Johannesburg on 30 January, three days after England's sole warm-up g

M Vaughan (capt), Kabir Ali, J Anderson, G Batty, I Bell, P Collingwood, A Flintoff, A Giles, D Gough, S Harmison, G Jones (wkt),
Wilkinson: Injuries toughened me

England skipper Jonny Wilkinson insists his battle with injuries during 2004 has toughened him up mentally.

The fly-half returned to action for Newcastle in their 13-10 Heineken Cup win at Edinburgh at the weekend after seven weeks
said: "I was physically prepared for my first return but mentally it was hard. "But having had this little time out since then I fee
World Cup glory in November 2003, also admits he may have rushed his initial comeback in September.

Wilkinson says he does not plan to push himself too far too fast this time around. "No-one can prepare you for what it's like t
done all the training and was more motivated than I've ever been.

"But sometimes that was met with disappointment after a few of the games, wondering why things were not working out wh
to be a bit more realistic about coming back. "I'm not in any way less ambitious - but I just understand that I should get on wi
And he said the experience of starting a game on the bench - as happened against Edinburgh - has made him more appreciati
"But what it's done is given me enormous respect and admiration for players who can do that on a regular basis, and Dave W

"To be an effective replacement is a skill in itself, and some of our players are fantastic at it. "When you start the game you're
the game tick by and then almost instantly switch on and join in when everyone else has had time to bed themselves into the
Charlton and James Grindal, do on a regular basis to good effect."

Gatland fears end of European run

Wasps coach Warren Gatland said the defending champions could pay a heavy price for their slow starts against Heineken Cu

Wasps are struggling to qualify for the next stage after the Tigers won both pool games between the two sides. "We just were
side now lie third in pool one. "We're relying on other teams now and we've got to get a result in Biarritz." Leicester swept in
got a lot of character by fighting back in the way we did, but Leicester thoroughly deserved their win," said Gatland. Wasps co
to go their way even if they secure victories over Calvisano and Biarritz next month.

Wasps skipper Lawrence Dallaglio agreed with Gatland's assessment. "When you are 19 points down in 15 minutes, you are p
continue to give ourselves a mountain to climb in these games, even though we finished strongly on both occasions." Leiceste
Premiership and European champions. "We had to come up with the goods, and it was a massive effort," he said. "It is in our
"But, like last weekend, we could never get away from Wasps. We could never relax and get into any stride. "Andy Goode has
of the score, but it was a massive team effort."
Kafer quits Saracens

Saracens head coach Rod Kafer has resigned from the Premiership club.

The 33-year-old Australian, who replaced Wayne Shelford in August 2003, has decided to stand down after a disappointing st
named as Kafer's replacement. "Following talks about extending my contract, I came to the conclusion that my preference wa
have decided that it is in the club's best interests that I stand down as head coach immediately. "I would like to thank both M
playing and management staff all the best for the remainder of the season." Kafer, who was part of the Australia team that w
the perennial under-achievers in the Premiership, have had a poor start to the season with only four victories in the first 11 le

Despite finishing third from bottom last season, hopes were high for this campaign but they are currently eighth in the table.
in the European Challenge Cup. Sinderberry said: "On behalf of the board of directors, I would like to thank Rod for his efforts
with a more focused coaching and playing structure." Diamond is the latest man to be charged with winning Saracens' first tr
with Sale. Together with Jim Mallinder, Diamond steered the club to second in the Premiership as well as Parker Pen Shield gl
said Sinderberry. "When Steve was appointed, it was with a view that he would succeed Rod should he take the decision to le
role."

Kafer resigns as Saracens coach

Saracens head coach Rod Kafer has resigned from the Premiership club.

The 33-year-old Australian, who replaced Wayne Shelford in August 2003, has decided to stand down after a disappointing st
named as Kafer's replacement. "Following talks about extending my contract, I came to the conclusion that my preference wa
have decided that it is in the club's best interests that I stand down as head coach immediately. "I would like to thank both M
playing and management staff all the best for the remainder of the season." Kafer, who was part of the Australia team that w
the perennial under-achievers in the Premiership, have had a poor start to the season with only four victories in the first 11 le

Despite finishing third from bottom last season, hopes were high for this campaign but they are currently eighth in the table.
in the European Challenge Cup. Sinderberry said: "On behalf of the board of directors, I would like to thank Rod for his efforts
with a more focused coaching and playing structure." Diamond is the latest man to be charged with winning Saracens' first tr
with Sale.

Together with Jim Mallinder, Diamond steered the club to second in the Premiership as well as Parker Pen Shield glory. "Stev
Sinderberry. "When Steve was appointed, it was with a view that he would succeed Rod should he take the decision to leave
Hurter flees Falcons nest for SA

Newcastle tight-head prop Marius Hurter will end six years in the north-east when he returns to his native South Africa befor

Hurter, 34, has signed a deal to play Super 12 rugby with the Cats and then the Currie Cup with the Lions. He also wants to fu
Andrew, said: "Losing Marius is a blow to us but we recognise he has a new life to go to." Hurter, capped 13 times by the Spri

He signed for the Falcons in 1998 and has played over 100 Zurich Premiership matches, helping the club lift the Powergen Cu
and Leeds, before flying to South Africa on 30 December. "We obviously wish Marius and his family all the best for their futur
Geordie," Andrew added. "His shoes will be big ones to fill, but we are looking at replacements as we try and build on all the g
props at the club." Hurter said: "I've had an amazing time here. It's been a great six years, but the plan was always to go back

O'Shea to head up RFU Academies

London Irish managing director Conor O'Shea is to leave the Exiles to take up a post as the Rugby Football Union's Director of

O'Shea will start his new role in the spring, monitoring players capable of developing into England internationals. "I look on th
see so much potential for moving the academy network onto another level and that excites me enormously." O'Shea, who wo
operations. He then became the Exiles' director of rugby before taking up the managing director role in 2003. O'Shea will man
been instrumental in establishing the system, and Brian Ashton, who runs the National Academy in Bath.

Wasps thrown out of Powergen Cup

Zurich Premiership champions Wasps have been disqualified from the Powergen Cup by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) for fi

Hooker Jonny Barrett played in Wasps' sixth-round 43-33 win over Bristol last weekend even though he was cup-tied. The ruli
against local rivals Gloucester on 22 January. Wasps have no plans to appeal against the decision. "The club has admitted its m
David Davies.

"At this time of year, with other major games coming up, it was in everyone's best interest to make a quick decision and allow
regret the deep embarrassment this incident causes to the club, our supporters and its players." During a loan spell at Henley
October. Wasps director of rugby Warren Gatland then fielded the hooker against the Shoguns in contravention of RFU rules.

The mistake, described as "an administrative oversight", came to light after a joint investigation between Wasps and the RFU

"We have accepted it as a mistake made on the part of the club," said RFU community and operations director Terry Burwell.
will take effect for this season only." Wasps won English rugby's premier domestic cup competition in 1999 and 2000. But the
Wasps are struggling to maintain their Heineken Cup title defence after back-to-back defeats by Leicester earlier this month i
Premiership.
Wilkinson targets Ireland

Jonny Wilkinson says he is "massively positive" about his chances of playing some part in the Six Nations.

A knee injury has ruled him out of England's first two matches against Wales and France, but he is hoping to feature against Ir
they could possibly be at this point." said the England fly-half. Wilkinson has not played for England since their 2003 World Cu
my usual game."

"All I can do is try to get back. It (the knee injury) happened two and a half weeks ago and the limit was then set of six to eigh
the rehab. "All I can do is free myself up for selection and then see what people want to do with me, whether they want to pl
be the British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand. "I'm looking to play first for Newcastle, then think about England and only

Marshall set for Leeds move

All Blacks scrum-half Justin Marshall has agreed a two-year contract to play for Leeds from next season.

The 31-year-old has a release clause in his New Zealand contract which allows him to move after the 2005 Lions tour. "It is a r
Davies added: "Justin is a world class player who will add greatly to this group with his professionalism on and off the field." M
for the All Blacks' European tour in November. He did travel to England to captain the Barbarians against his international tea
committed to New Zealand rugby this season," he added. "I enjoy a good challenge and it would be great to face the Lions." M
12 titles, on Monday ahead of the new season. His intended departure later this year comes with the blessing of All Blacks co
said. "While we never like losing world-class players from our ranks, there is no doubting that he has served New Zealand rug

Scrum-half Williams rejoins Bath

Bath have signed their former scrum-half Andy Williams on a short-term deal from the Neath-Swansea Ospreys.

Wales international Williams, whose contract with the Welsh region was due to expire in June, has agreed a contract until the
experienced back-up to Nick Walshe. Said Williams: "When this opportunity presented itself, I did not really have to think twi
Monday's Zurich Premiership match at Sale Sharks. He lost his Ospreys starting place to New Zealander Jason Spice and has fa
Richie Rees and Rhodri Wells. Bath director of rugby Jack Rowell, though, believes Williams fits the bill perfectly. "He has been
told Bath's official website. "We are delighted to be able to welcome him back to the club."
Bath faced with Tindall ultimatum

Mike Tindall's agent has warned Bath they have until next week to improve their contract offer to the England man or risk los

Dipo Alli says he has received an offer for Tindall which dwarfs Bath's deal and that two other clubs want to talk. "Mike does n
Alli told the Guardian newspaper. "It is up to (Bath owner) Andrew Brownsword. He has to make it happen." Tindall is out of c
salary structure to accommodate the 26-year-old's demands. But Alli insists the player is worth more than Bath have put on t
anything but excessive," the agent added. "But Brownsword has to recognise Mike's value and we want to resolve things by t

Tindall wants second opinion

England centre Mike Tindall is to seek a second opinion before having surgery on a foot injury that could force him to miss th

The Bath player was already out of the opener against Wales on 5 February because of a hand problem. "Mike had a specialis
made on surgery... medical teams have decided he should see a second specialist."

England coach Andy Robinson is already without centre Will Greenwood and flanker Richard Hill while fly-half Jonny Wilkinso
line-up on Monday for the match at the Millennium Stadium. And Newcastle's 18-year-old centre Mathew Tait is set to stand

Meanwhile, Tindall is targeting a return to action before the end of the regular Zurich Premiership season on 30 April. He will
Paris promise raises Welsh hopes

Has there been a better Six Nations match than Saturday's epic in Paris?

And can the Welsh revival continue all the way to a first Grand Slam since 1978? Those are the two questions occupying not j
Davies, a member of two of three Grand Slam-winning sides of the 1970s, hailed it as "one of the great performances of the p
games I have ever played in". A crestfallen France coach, Bernard Laporte, simply observed: "There was a French half and the
deficit into an 18-15 lead within five mesmerising minutes of the second period. But while that passage of play showed the sw
lot more about this Welsh side. That they recovered from a battering in the first half-hour to first stem the tide before half-tim
wave of French pressure in a nail-biting final five minutes, Wales showed not only their physical attributes but their mental re

In international rugby, any of the top seven sides can beat each other on a given day, but the great sides are those that win th
route to World Cup glory, the pain of defeat forging bonds that ultimately led to victory when it really mattered. Wales have s
previously on the receiving end are learning how to emerge on the right side of the scoreline. Ten of the 22 on duty on Saturd
the shackles against New Zealand in the 2003 World Cup, Wales have rediscovered much of what made them a great rugby n

"The confidence in the squad has been building and building since the World Cup and we now have young players who are be
Peel and Gavin Henson are certainly building strong cases for inclusion on this summer's Lions tour to New Zealand. And play
youngsters that are on an upward curve. Jones, after his superb man-of-the-match display, observed that "we are a very happ
regional divisions that have often scarred Welsh rugby do not extend to the national squad. The

joie de vivre

so evident in that magical second-half spell in Paris also stems from a style of play that first wooed supporters the world over

If England had half the innate attacking exuberance Wales have produced in this championship, they would not be contempla
matches, and that forward power, mental toughness and good decision-making under pressure are equally important. So on
will go into overdrive, the players will set about the task of beating Scotland. Only then - with the visit of Ireland to finish - can
into Welsh legend.
Wales silent on Grand Slam talk

Rhys Williams says Wales are still not thinking of winning the Grand Slam despite a third Six Nations win.

"That's the last thing on our minds at the moment," said Williams, a second- half replacement in Saturday's 24-18 win over Fr
unstuck there a couple of times recently so our focus is on that game and we'll worry about Ireland hopefully after we've bea
Williams is vying for his first start in the championship so far.

Kevin Morgan is probably favourite to replace Thomas at full-back, leaving Williams and Hal Luscombe to battle for the right w
Dragons winger is expected to be fit for the trip to Murrayfield on 13 March. Hooker Robin McBryde is doubtful after picking
to be in contention for selection. Said Wales assistant coach Scott Johnson: "They've worked through the weekend and the re
Scotland secured their first win of the campaign on Saturday by grinding out an 18-10 win over Italy.

Matt Williams' side has shown little in attack, but Johnson insisted the Scots will be difficult opposition to break down. "Italy a
effective as a 30 or 40 point victory. "Scotland are a hard side and very underrated so we're not taking anything for granted. "
preparation. "That's my job and we've got to make sure we're focused."

Sculthorpe wants Lions captaincy

Paul Sculthorpe has admitted he would love to succeed Andy Farrell as Great Britain skipper if the Wigan star does switch cod

Sculthorpe was vice-captain in the Tri-Nations, and took the St Helens captaincy from Chris Joynt last year. "I would definitely
to do. I'd gladly take it if it was offered to me."

The 27-year-old, who captained St Helens to Challenge Cup success last year, said following in the footsteps of Farrell would b
said. "The GB team isn't a one-man team. There are a lot of good young players who are pushing for places anyway."

Sculthorpe said the rugby league world would understand if Farrell did decide to move to rugby union. "It's a short career and
done everything in the game of rugby league.

"Financially it could set him up for life. If he fancies a new challenge, then who could fault him?" Sculthorpe also called on the
to play. Sean Long, Sculthorpe's Saints and Lions team-mate, has expressed doubts about his international future "I think Sea

"The way he's looking at it is that if he can extend his career by a couple of years by not playing international rugby, then he's
year and it's too much. "A lot of the niggly injuries that I've suffered with over the last couple of years have come about becau
Sonny Bill Williams, and Sculthorpe said he would love the 19-year-old to come to Knowsley Road. "He's a great player - a big
come to St Helens. Who knows what might happen? But you want the best players in your team, and he's certainly one of the
Tigers wary of Farrell 'gamble'

Leicester say they will not be rushed into making a bid for Andy Farrell should the Great Britain rugby league captain decide t

"We and anybody else involved in the process are still some way away from going to the next stage," Tigers boss John Wells t
his medical situation. "Whoever does take him on is going to take a big, big gamble." Farrell, who has had persistent knee pro
Leicester and Saracens are believed to head the list of rugby union clubs interested in signing Farrell if he decides to move to

If he does move across to union, Wells believes he would better off playing in the backs, at least initially. "I'm sure he could m
would prefer him to progress to a position in the back row where they can make use of some of his rugby league skills within
be struck between the cost of that gamble and the option of bringing in a ready-made replacement."

Farrell saga to drag on - Lindsay

Wigan chairman Maurice Lindsay says he does not expect a quick solution to the on-going saga of captain Andy Farrell's possi

Leicester and Saracens are leading the chase for the player, but Lindsay told the BBC it was not yet a done deal. "As well as th
not a quick decision," he said. "He's given us 12 years service so if he wants to go, we'd support him." The prospect of Farrell
of the blue to us," admitted Lindsay. "But he's a very loyal friend to the club, so there's no question that he's deserting us. He

Although the move would be a lucrative one for both Farrell and Wigan, Lindsay said money was not a motivating factor for t
Radio Five Live. "A shortage of money has never been a problem for us. "Even if we did have it, under the salary cap we can't

Lindsay also said he understood why rugby union was so interested in signing up Farrell. "It'd be a great loss for us but a grea
so long and has demonstrated so many attributes that you need to make it in a tough contact sport. "Athletes like him - Ellery
got them."
England given tough Sevens draw

England will have to negotiate their way through a tough draw if they are to win the Rugby World Cup Sevens in Hong Kong n

The second seeds have been drawn against Samoa, France, Italy, Georgia and Chinese Taipei. The top two sides in each pool q
Samoa. Scotland and Ireland are in Pool A together with the All Blacks. England won the first event of the International Rugby
victory.

However, they beat Samoa in the recent Los Angeles Sevens before losing to Argentina in the semi-finals. "England have the a
hold both the 15s and Sevens World Cups at the same time," said England sevens coach Mike Friday. "England have a fantasti
"Every pool contains teams who have caused upsets before and we will have to work hard to ensure we progress from our gr
disappointing - but we can only look forward." England won the first Rugby World Cup Sevens in 1993 with a side that include

(seeds in brackets)

New Zealand (1), Scotland (8), Tonga, Ireland, Korea, USA.

England (2), Samoa (7), France, Italy, Georgia, Chinese Taipei.

Fiji (3), Australia (6), Canada, Portugal, Japan, Hong Kong.

Argentina (4), South Africa (5), Kenya, Tunisia, Russia, Uruguay.

Wales hails new superstar

One game into his Six Nations career, and Gavin Henson is already a Welsh legend.

A mesmeric display against England, topped off by his howitzer of a match-winning penalty, has secured life membership of t
assurance and swagger is shared by his Wales team-mates, then a full-blown revival could be more than just a lot of hot air d
field, but Henson's stellar performance ensured their efforts yielded the win they craved above all others. He announced him
And his defence was a major feature of the match, his principal victim poor old, or rather young, Mathew Tait. The England ce
not just once, but twice, by Henson's all-enveloping tackles.

The second time, after the interval, single-handedly lifted the record Millennium Stadium crowd at a time when England were
debutant in mid-air, a master predator toying with his helpless prey, savouring the kill. His kicking game also prospered, parti
Thomas was in the sin-bin. One huge clearance from Tait's kick sent England retreating rapidly while another booming punt to
little chip ahead for Shane Williams narrowly missed its target; a precise cross-kick forcing Jamie Noon to fumble the ball into
himself on the half-hour as he glided into space, only to be scragged by Tait. Henson was twice repelled as Wales laid siege to
was not to be denied as the crescendo rose to a deafening din, and the outcome of the match fell to him. Replacement Garet
penalised for holding on in the tackle.

Five metres in from the right touchline, 44 metres out, it was not a kick Stephen Jones, who had seen a long-range effort fall a
looked at Gavin, and he gave me a reassuring nod," said Thomas. Henson, surveying his date with destiny, positively relished
the kick that ended five years of English dominance and 12 years of waiting in Cardiff. "I knew I was going to get it before I ev
have been getting them from that distance all year so it wasn't a problem." There were still four minutes for Wales to hold ou
three yards away. But it was Wales who finished the game on the attack, almost snatching a second try in a thunderous clima
Henson, Wales did.

Sydney to host north v south game

Sydney will host a northern versus southern hemisphere charity match in June or July, the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) said

The match will include players from the Lions tour of New Zealand. "The Australian Rugby Union has thrown its support behin
to be decided but the most likely venue is Sydney's Olympic Stadium. ARU chief executive Gary Flowers said the world cricket
options with the IRB (International Rugby Board), the Lions and our SANZAR (South Africa, New Zealand and Australia Rugby)
southern hemisphere rugby available," he said. Wallabies captain George Gregan said the charity match was a "great initiativ
team against a northern side comprised of Six Nations teams France, Ireland, England, Wales, Italy and Scotland. Coach Clive

Almost 80,000 fans packed into Melbourne Cricket Ground on 10 January for a charity match that raised £5.9m for victims of
Celts savour Grand Slam prospect

The Six Nations has heralded a new order in northern hemisphere rugby this year and Wales and Ireland rather than tradition

But before that game in Cardiff, Wales must get past Scotland at Murrayfield, while Ireland face the not insignificant task of a
on 12 March - sublime, as in the first half against Wales, or ridiculous, like in the same period against England at Twickenham
2003 Grand Slam winners. But they have lost nine of their 14 matches since that heady night in Sydney. And they face the ign

England are enduring their worst run in the championship since captain Richard Hill was dumped in favour of Mike Harrison a
Woodward in September, has lost a phalanx of World Cup stars. And he is enduring the toughest of teething problems in bed
lost all five matches in the Six Nations. And they won only two games, against Scotland and Italy, in 2004. Wales' most recent
Edwards, Phil Bennett, JPR Williams et al.

But Welsh rugby fans remain on permanent tenterhooks for the blossoming of a new golden age. After several false dawns, c
verve is inspired by skipper Gareth Thomas, now out with a broken thumb, accurate kicking from either fly-half Stephen Jone
the guise of Henson and Shane Williams. Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan and captain Brian O'Driscoll have got their side buzzin
The men from the Emerald Isle have been Six Nations runners-up for the past two years, to France and England.

But they have not won the title since 1985 and last clinched a Grand Slam in 1948. As for Scotland, they have struggled this d
1999. Italy continue the elusive search for their first Six Nations away win, and can still only account for the scalps of Scotland
believer in the Azzurri, but is lacking in raw materials. And so to France. Brilliant one minute, inept the next. But the reigning c
door. Ireland, though, have won three times in their last five meetings. Welsh romantics would probably prefer a glorious vict
of their last five meetings, the Welsh legions are likely to be behind Les Bleus on 12 March.
Ireland win eclipses refereeing 'errors'

The International Rugby Board may have to step in to stop frustrated coaches and players from publicly haranguing referees w

It may have to go the whole way and have NFL-style video cameras all over the field, or slap the vociferous perpetrators over
overshadow the game itself. Sunday's explosive Six Nations clash at Lansdowne Road was a good example as Ireland took ano
improved England side enraged at a few decisions that did not go their way. One can understand that frustration. There was
camp may not have endeared them to the sport's "blazers". Referee Jonathan Kaplan was not perfect by any means and two
pleased at the comments made. After all, he has no public recourse to criticism.

It was the same for Simon McDowell, the touch judge who was heavily criticised by Scotland coach Matt Williams after their d
effort when he went over in the corner from a Charlie Hodgson kick.

England coach Andy Robinson referred to a similar case at Ravenhill in January when Ulster were playing Gloucester in the He
corner only for the try to be wiped out. But you cannot have cameras at every conceivable angle to pick up such anomalies. P
over the Irish line near the end.

Lewsey claims he touched it down and was in full control. However, one has to credit Ireland flanker Johnny O'Connor for cle
to even out over the 80 minutes. The referee also missed England's Danny Grewcock taking out Ronan O'Gara off the ball to a
between the two old foes.

But there were many more, and one should not take away from those. Brian O'Driscoll's winning try was as well-conceived as
tremendous ability to control the game was also a crucial component. But the defining moments came with Ireland under the
Ireland to hold on. The first was Denis Hickie's brilliant double tackle in the right-hand corner. He gobbled up Cueto from ano
second-row colossus Paul O'Connell was equally superb. England had turned Ireland one way then the other, and the defence
tacklers. Unfortunately he ran into O'Connell who hit him hard - very hard - and then wrestled the ball away for a crucial turn
bow at the end. To win a game like that showed that Ireland have moved forward. It may be tries that win games, but it is de
Ireland 19-13 England

Ireland consigned England to their third straight Six Nations defeat with a stirring victory at Lansdowne Road.

A second-half try from captain Brian O'Driscoll and 14 points from Ronan O'Gara kept Ireland on track for their first Grand Sla
Lewsey disallowed. Andy Robinson's men have now lost nine of their last 14 matches since the 2003 World Cup final. The def
the Five Nations, in 1985, but 20 years on they share top spot in the table on maximum points with Wales. And Eddie O'Sulliv
Slam at Lansdowne Road. In front of a supercharged home crowd on a dry but blustery day in Dublin, Ireland tore into the wh
minute drop-goal.

England took their time to settle but their first real venture into Ireland's half produced a simple score for Corry. The number
and the Irish line, racing 25 yards to touch down. England fly-half Charlie Hodgson nailed the conversion from out on the left,
England were awarded a penalty of their own on the halfway line after 20 minutes, and Hodgson, the villain at Twickenham, c
who were showing more willingness to spread the ball wide to their eager and inventive backs. A series of probes led by the t

From the line-out, the ball was recycled back to O'Gara, who stroked his second drop-goal, this time off the right upright. As t
Wasps star raced up his touchline and Hodgson's cross-kick put in Mark Cueto for an apparent score, but the Sale wing was ru
their own half. But another English indiscretion on a rare Irish break-out awarded O'Gara a kick at goal, which he missed. Eng
line before Hodgson landed a drop-goal.

The lead was shortlived, however. Ireland raced upfield, deft handling from the backs, including a clever dummy from Georda
the posts. O'Gara missed a penalty which would have put Ireland nine points clear, and the home crowd breathed a sigh of re
sent the noise level sky-high, but O'Gara missed another chance to seal the game with a wayward drop-goal attempt. Inside t
Leicester's Harry Ellis. But despite one near miss with the pack over the line - not checked on the TV replay by referee Jonatha
Road in two weeks' time before the potential title decider against Wales in Cardiff. England are still to meet Italy at Twickenh

G Murphy; G Dempsey, B O'Driscoll, S Horgan, D Hickie; R O'Gara, P Stringer; R Corrigan, S Byrne, J Hayes; M O'Kelly, P O'Conn

F Sheahan, M Horan, D O'Callaghan, E Miller, G Easterby, D Humphreys, K Maggs.

J Robinson (capt); M Cueto, J Noon, O Barkley, J Lewsey; C Hodgson, H Ellis; G Rowntree, S Thompson, M Stevens; D Grewcoc

A Titterrell, D Bell, S Borthwick, A Hazell, M Dawson, A Goode, O Smith.

Fuming Robinson blasts officials

England coach Andy Robinson said he was "livid" after his side were denied two tries in Sunday's 19-13 Six Nations loss to Irel

Mark Cueto's first-half effort was ruled out for offside before the referee spurned TV replays when England crashed over in th
BBC Sport. "We've got to go back to technology. I don't know why we didn't." South African referee Jonathan Kaplan ruled th
gather.

Kaplan then declined the chance to consult the fourth official when Josh Lewsey took the ball over the Irish line under a pile o
and I think he should have gone to the video referee on Josh Lewsey," said Robinson. "It is how we use the technology. It is th

"I am still trying to work out the Cueto try. I have looked at both, and they both looked tries. "We are very disappointed, and
called it his way and we have got to be able to cope with that.

"We did everything we could have done to win the game. I am very proud of my players and, with a couple of decisions, this c
at tighthead prop, while the likes of Charlie Hodgson, Martin Corry and Lewis Moody all came through well. "Josh Lewsey was
must go to all the players. "We have done everything but win a game of rugby, but Ireland are a good side. They defended ma
matches in this year's Six Nations and four out of their six games since Robinson took over from Sir Clive Woodward in Septem
Scotland 18-10 Italy

Six Chris Paterson penalties gave Scotland victory in a dour but clinical encounter against Italy at Murrayfield.

Coach Matt Williams' side were outmuscled and outplayed in a tense first half but led 6-3 at the break. Paterson slotted four
ruled out for a forward pass. A late Andrea Masi try was small consolation for Italy, chasing their first away win in the Six Nati
back Paterson. But the more powerful Azzurri pack eventually rumbled into life.

A series of drives into Scottish territory set up a penalty attempt, missed by full-back Roland De Marigny, and a wayward drop
coming up yards short of the line, equalised through a De Marigny penalty. Italy were offered another penalty when Scottish
made the most of a rare foray into the Italian half and snatched three points from Paterson when an Italian forward handled

As the half wore on, both sides squandered promising spells of momentum with sloppy penalties, and the period fizzled out w
level the scores again shortly after the break but his long-range kick shaved the right upright. And Scotland capitalised with a
and, after a couple of probing attacks, Paterson was able to slot another three points to widen the gap.

With the pendulum of possession swinging towards Scotland, Lamont thought he had wriggled over in the left corner after 65
70 minutes kept the pressure on the wilting visitors. But John Kirwan's men had the last laugh when Gordon Ross' attempted

: C Paterson; S Webster, A Craig, H Southwell, S Lamont; D Parks, C Cusiter; T Smith, G Bulloch (capt), G Kerr; S Grimes, S Murr

R Russell, B Douglas, N Hines, J Dunbar, M Blair, G Ross, B Hinshelwood.

R de Marigny; Mirco Bergamasco, C Stoica, A Masi, L Nitoglia; L Orquera, A Troncon; A Lo Cicero, F Ongaro, M Castrogiovanni;

G Intoppa, S Perugini, CA del Fava, S Orlando, P Griffen, R Pedrazzi, KP Robertson.

Bortolami predicts dour contest

Italy skipper Marco Bortolami believes Saturday's Six Nations contest against Scotland will be a scrappy encounter.

With both sides looking for their first win of the championship, the third-round game at Murrayfield has been billed as a woo
the packs. "It will not be a pretty game because both teams are desperate to gain their first win," said the lock forward. Italy h
against Scotland. This year, Italy opened up with a stubborn display against Ireland but ended up losing 28-17.

However, they were thoroughly outplayed by an impressive Welsh side in Rome last time out. Now the Italians travel to Edinb
France in Paris but not so well when Ireland came to Edinburgh," said Bortolami. "We are still very disappointed with our last
quest is to be respected as a team worthy of a place in this tournament and we can only do this by winning games."
O'Connell rejects Lions rumours

Ireland and Munster lock Paul O'Connell has dismissed media reports linking him to the captaincy of the Lions tour to New Ze

O'Connell is rumoured to be among the front-runners for the job, but says he is totally focused on Sunday's Six Nations crunc
all speculation and newspaper talk, nothing more. I just ignore it and get on with my job." He added: "The only thing that ann
'I'm going to show this guy what's what about second row play'. That's the one thing that makes me cringe." O'Connell, who m
rugby's shop window - but refuses to be drawn on the Lions.

"I have spoken to Sir Clive Woodward a few times, but not for very long, certainly nothing about summer holidays," he joked.
straight defeats, dismissing predictions of a certain Irish victory. "It's very dangerous to think that. This England team has so m
breakers in Josh Lewsey and Jason Robinson, while Charlie Hodgson is just ready to click into place." He insisted Ireland will n
lining up to play England will ever fall into that trap," he said. "Every time we play England we know what a big task it is. Look
"I came on as a replacement and we were losing 13-6, and ended up getting hammered 42-6, so I know what can happen whe
a Grand Slam in the face as well."

Taylor poised for Scotland return

Simon Taylor has been named in the Scotland squad for Saturday's Six Nations clash with Italy.

The 25-year-old number eight made a scoring return for Edinburgh at the weekend - his first game in a year for the capital sid
championship. "Simon is one of Scotland's truly world class players so it is a huge bonus," said team-mate Chris Paterson. "He
down could be key against Italy if he is involved." Taylor has turned out for English side Saracens in recent weeks during a sho

Edinburgh were not in action during the first two weeks of this season's Six Nations. So Taylor played the last 20 minutes of S
The Cats. Scotland coach Matt Williams is due to name his match-day 22 on Thursday. Both Scotland and Italy have lost their
game could turn out to be a battle to avoid the wooden spoon.

- M Blair (Edinburgh), A Craig (Glasgow), C Cusiter (Borders), S Danielli (Borders), M Di Rollo (Edinburgh), A Henderson (Glasgo
(Edinburgh), G Ross (Leeds), H Southwell (Edinburgh), S Webster (Edinburgh)

- R Beattie (Northampton), G Bulloch (Glasgow, capt), B Douglas (Borders), J Dunbar (Leeds), I Fullarton (Saracens), S Grimes (
(Edinburgh), J Petrie (Glasgow), R Russell (London Irish), C Smith (Edinburgh), T Smith (Northampton), S Taylor (Edinburgh), J W
Vickery upbeat about arm injury

England prop Phil Vickery is staying positive despite a broken arm ruling him out of the RBS Six Nations.

The 28-year-old fractured the radius in his right forearm during Gloucester's 17-16 win over Bath on Saturday. He will underg
that will stop me from working hard on the fitness elements and being around the lads." He added: "I've got the operation th
positive."

After the game, Vickery spoke with Bath prop David Barnes, who also broke his arm recently. "I had a chat with David Barnes
after a week. "There's no doubt that I'm going to get involved and be around this place as soon as I can after the operation." G
forearm. "I don't really know how it happened, but Phil will definitely be out of action for at least six weeks. "I feel very sorry
this happened. Mentally, it must be very hard for him."

Dominici backs lacklustre France

Wing Christophe Dominici says France can claim another Six Nations Grand Slam despite two lacklustre wins so far against Sco

The champions only just saw off the Scots in Paris, then needed England to self-destruct in last week's 18-17 win. "The English
know our display was not perfect, but we can still win the Grand Slam, along with Ireland and Wales." France , Ireland and Wa
playing by far the more impressive rugby.

France take on Wales at the Stade de France on 26 February and Ireland in Dublin on 12 March. But although France have yet
continues in his goalkicking form. "If we have an efficient kicker on whom we can rely on, a solid defence and a team who pla
the winners would be clearer from the third matches, and that's exactly what is going to happen." France coach Bernard Lapo

Wing Jimmy Marlu is definitely out with the knee injury sustained at Twickenham, which is likely to sideline him for the rest o
Imanol Harinordoquy has shaken off his shoulder injury. In the backs, centre Yannick Jauzion and winger Aurelien Rougerie ar
replacement for Pepito Elhorga.
Llewellyn plans Wales retirement

Wales record cap holder Gareth Llewellyn will retire from Test rugby at the end of the Six Nations.

The veteran lock, who is 36 at the end of February, told BBC Wales Scrum V that it is time for him to bring down the curtain o
may consider retiring from all rugby. "I don't know what I'll do next year, whether to carry on playing or make a change in my
whether to stay on there or maybe go somewhere else, but ultimitely coaching is where I'd like to end up. "I've done all the c
somewhere." Fellow locks Robert Sidoli and Brent Cockbain, who both scored tries in Saturday's Six Nations win in Italy, are W

With the resurgence of the Dragons' Ian Gough and the adaptibility of lock-cum-flanker Jon Thomas on the bench, Llewellyn h
is still targetting one last outing in the red shirt. "If I do get on the field then brilliant, although the boys are doing really well a
players have been through a hell of a lot. "Sometimes the easiest thing would have been to throw the towel in and walk away
going to retire at the end of the last Six Nations, I'd even told some of the boys in the squad about it. "But Mike (Ruddock) ask
out as much as I can." Llewellyn made his Wales debut in 1989 against New Zealand as a 20-year-old, having caught the selec
on to break Neil Jenkins' Wales cap record on 12 June 2004 in the 50-44 loss in Argentina.

"There's been lots of highs - winning the Six Nations in '94, beating England in '93, I've been on some great tours and seen som
the players, I've met some great guys in rugby and made some great friends. "It'll be a bit strange on international days havin
Llewellyn captained Neath for seven seasons, while being an integral part of the Neath-Swansea Ospreys regional side's first s
for employment - digging in his heels during contract negotiations to insist he must be allowed to play for Wales.
England 17-18 France

England suffered an eighth defeat in 11 Tests as scrum-half Dimitri Yachvili booted France to victory at Twickenham.

Two converted tries from Olly Barkley and Josh Lewsey helped the world champions to a 17-6 half-time lead. But Charlie Hod
visitors in front. England could have won the game with three minutes left, but Hodgson pushed an easy drop goal opportuni
Wales. They should have put the game well beyond France's reach, but remarkably remained scoreless for the entire second
opening displays against Wales and Scotland respectively. Hodgson had an early opportunity to settle English nerves but push
Mark Cueto penalised for holding on to the ball in the tackle, Yachvili giving France the lead with a kick from wide out.

France twice turned over England ball at the breakdown early on as the home side struggled to generate forward momentum
England refused a possible three points to kick a penalty to the corner, only to botch the subsequent line-out. But England ma
try. Jamie Noon took a short pass from Barkley and ran a good angle to plough through Yann Delaigue's flimsy tackle before s

Hodgson converted and added a penalty after one of several French infringements on the floor for a 10-3 lead. The fly-half fa
scragged by Lewsey, threw the ball into touch. Barkley also missed two longer-range efforts as the first half drew to a close, b
hard at the French defence and off-loaded out of Sylvain Marconnet's tackle to Lewsey. The industrious wing cut back in on a
France threw on three forward replacements in an attempt to rectify the situation, wing Jimmy Marlu having already departe

And when Lewis Moody was twice penalised - for handling in a ruck and then straying offside - the scrum-half's unerring left b
And after seeing another attempt drop just short, Yachvili put France ahead with his sixth penalty with 11 minutes left.

England sent on Ben Cohen and Matt Dawson, and after Barkley's kick saw Christophe Dominici take the ball over his own line
seal victory but pushed his drop-goal attempt wide. England threw everything at the French in the final frantic moments, but

J Robinson (capt); M Cueto, J Noon, O Barkley, J Lewsey; C Hodgson, H Ellis; G Rowntree, S Thompson, P Vickery; D Grewcock,

A Titterrell, A Sheridan, S Borthwick, A Hazell, M Dawson, H Paul, B Cohen.

P Elhorga; C Dominici, B Liebenberg, D Traille, J Marlu; Y Delaigue, D Yachvili; S Marconnet, S Bruno, N Mas; F Pelous (capt), J

W Servat, J Milloud, G Lamboley, Y Nyanga, P Mignoni, F Michalak, J-P Grandclaude.

Paddy O'Brien (New Zealand)

Wilkinson to miss Ireland match

England will have to take on Ireland in the Six Nations without captain and goal-kicker Jonny Wilkinson, according to his Newc

Wilkinson - who had targeted the 27 February match for his international comeback - has been missed by England, not least f
for Dublin, there's no doubt about that, but he might be fit for Scotland and Italy." The 25-year-old has not played for England
games in a row, wasted a 17-6 half-time lead in their 18-17 defeat to France. Goal-kickers Charlie Hodgson and Olly Barkley m
kickers in the Premiership in Hodgson and Barkley," added Andrew, a former England fly-half and goal-kicker.

"They're both pretty good kickers. Charlie is a good kicker week-in, week-out. "But it's all about pressure and unfortunately E
recent results on a lack of leadership in the side following several high-profile retirements and injuries. "They just didn't have
obviously huge losses and leadership is so important in those situations," he said. "I think it is really difficult for Jason Robinso
England's mistakes down to a lack of mental toughness.

"Jonny Wilkinson has proved himself a cool customer with around an 80% kicking success rate," Hare told BBC Radio Five Live
shut out all the outside elements and concentrate on putting the ball between the posts." Hodgson, who has an excellent kick
top golfers don't hit the fairway every time, and it is the same with goal-kicking," Hare added. "You need that mental toughne
Wales secured their first away win in the RBS Six Nations for nearly four years with a six-try victory in Rome.

Tries from Jonathan Thomas, Tom Shanklin and Martyn Williams gave the visitors a 19-5 half-time advantage. Luciano Orquer
Sidoli sealed victory. Fly-half Stephen Jones added four conversions as Wales maintained their superb start to this year's tour
after just four minutes. Diminutive wing Shane Williams fielded a kick ahead and danced past the onrushing Andrea Masi and
held up short, the ball was switched left and Michael Owen's long cut-out pass gave the lurking Thomas an easy run-in.

Stephen Jones, who retained the kicking duties despite Gavin Henson's heroics against England, slotted an excellent conversio
back out of the blue in the 11th minute.

Henson, sporting gold boots rather than the silver variety that did for England, beat two players with ease out on the left touc
hared away from halfway to score in the right corner. With the Welsh line-out stuttering and Italy twice turning the visitors' s
almost brought a try for Hal Luscombe when Roland de Marigny and Ludovico Nitoglia made a hash of claiming it as the ball b

Wales regained control with a second try in the 21st minute, Henson lobbing up a high kick to the left corner where Shanklin
then hit the upright with a penalty attempt for Italy. Henson was also narrowly short with a long-range effort at goal, but Wal

Henson sent Luscombe streaking away and when he off-loaded to Martyn Williams, the flanker showed his nous to ground th
Bergamasco with a head knock before half-time, built up a head of steam on the resumption. De Marigny landed a penalty to
with a knock-on. But Wales put the outcome beyond doubt with two superb tries in four minutes before the hour. Their fourt
with ease, and finished with a powerful angled run from lock Cockbain. Before Italy could recover from that blow, a strong su
Shane Williams scamper over.

With Jones converting both for a 33-8 lead, Wales had the luxury of sending on five more replacements for the final quarter.
Sweeney combining to send Sidoli over in the left corner. The only downside for Wales was a hamstring injury suffered by Lus
travel to Paris in a fortnight looking like genuine contenders.

R de Marigny; Mirco Bergamasco, W Pozzebon, A Masi, L Nitoglia; L Orquera, A Troncon; A Lo Cicero, F Ongaro, M Castrogiova

G Intoppa, S Perugini, CA del Fava, D dal Maso, P Griffen, M Barbini, KP Robertson.

G Thomas (capt); H Luscombe, T Shanklin, G Henson, S Williams; S Jones, D Peel; G Jenkins, M Davies, A Jones; B Cockbain, R S

R McBryde, J Yapp, I Gough, R Sowden-Taylor, G Cooper, C Sweeney, K Morgan.

Andrew Cole (Australia).

D'Arcy injury adds to Ireland woe

Gordon D'Arcy has been ruled out of the Ireland team for Saturday's Six Nations clash against Scotland in Murrayfield.

Like skipper Brian O'Driscoll, D'Arcy failed to recover from a hamstring injury. The side will now be led by Munster lock Paul O
Girvan Dempsey comes into the team to take the right wing spot while Gavin Duffy is called up to the replacements. ''We gav
element, it was a sensible precaution. He should be fine for the next game but we do not want to tempt fate.''

Maggs, who will win his 67th cap, was the obvious replacement at centre while Shane Horgan was always likely to be moved
flanker Johnny O'Connor replacing Denis Leamy. O'Connor will be winning his third cap after making his debut in the victory o

: Murphy, Dempsey, Horgan, Maggs, Hickie, O'Gara, Stringer, Corrigan, Byrne, Hayes, O'Kelly, O'Connell, capt, S Easterby, O'C

: Sheahan, Horan, O'Callaghan, Miller, G Easterby, Humphreys, Duffy.

O'Driscoll out of Scotland game

Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll has been ruled out of Saturday's RBS Six Nations clash against Scotland.

O'Driscoll was originally named in the starting line-up but has failed to recover from the hamstring injury he picked up in the w
D'Arcy is also struggling with a hamstring injury and he will undergo a fitness test on Friday to see if he can play.

Kevin Maggs would be an obvious replacement at centre while Shane Horgan could also be moved from wing. Ulster wing To
only other change to the Ireland side sees Wasps flanker Johnny O'Connor replacing Denis Leamy. O'Connor will be winning h

: Murphy, Horgan, TBC, D'Arcy, Hickie, O'Gara, Stringer, Corrigan, Byrne, Hayes, O'Kelly, O'Connell, S Easterby, O'Connor, Fole

: Sheahan, Horan, O'Callaghan, Miller, G Easterby, Humphreys, Dempsey.

Tindall aiming to earn Lions spot

Bath and England centre Mike Tindall believes he can make this summer's Lions tour, despite missing most of the season thro

The World Cup winner has been out of action since December, having damaged both his shoulder and his foot. But Tindall, w
for the tour to New Zealand. "I'm aiming to be fit by 18 April and hope I can play from then," he said. "I've spoken to Sir Clive
will face stiff competition for those centre places from Brian O'Driscoll, Gordon D'Arcy and Gavin Henson, and is aware that co

But after missing out on the 2001 tour to Australia with a knee injury, Tindall says he will be happy just to have an opportunit
pushing for a Test spot," he said. "But after what's happened this season at least Clive knows I'll be 100% fresh!"

- For the full interview with Mike Tindall tune into this Sunday's Rugby Special, 2340 on BBC Two

Hamm bows out for US

Women's football legend Mia Hamm has played her final game.

Hamm, 32, who officially retired after this year's Athens Olympics, took to the field for the last time to help the US claim a 5-0
football, with 158 goals in 276 games for the US. She was twice Fifa women's player of the year and won the World Cup in 19
are things in your life that you have had to put on the back-burner and you can focus more time and energy on that now. "I h
end of Julie Foudy and Joy Fawcett's US careers. Hamm will now embark on a new life with husband, Chicago Cubs shortstop
the Cubs after joining them in July.
Wenger rules out new keeper

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger says he has no plans to sign a new goalkeeper during the January transfer window.

Wenger has brought in Manuel Almunia for the last three games for the out-of-form Jens Lehmann - but the Spaniard himself
shot-stopper in the New Year. But he told the Evening Standard: "I don't feel it will be necessary to bring in a new goalkeeper
has made to his career at Highbury. And he would not be drawn on whether Lehmann would return for the top-of-the table c

Almunia was at fault for Rosenborg's goal in Arsenal's 5-1 Champions League win on Tuesday and had some hairy moments in
to pressure caused by being under scrutiny from the media. "The debate has gone on too long. Everyone has an opinion and
Schwarzer, Fulham's Edwin van der Sar and Parma's Sebastien Frey. And Wenger has no immediate plans to recall former Eng

Liverpool pledge to keep Gerrard

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry insists the club will never sell Steven Gerrard amid reports Chelsea will renew their bid to

Gerrard reiterated his desire to win trophies with the Reds after his superb Champions League winner on Wednesday. And Pa
going in January," said Parry. "That just won't happen. Our intention is that we will never let him go." Gerrard scored a specta
"Of course he is ambitious but so are we," Parry added. "We firmly believe that if we can satisfy his ambition he will remain a
and that played a big part in his decision to stay last summer. If he was not so committed to Liverpool he would have gone by
out of Europe, with Real Madrid also believed to be monitoring his situation.

"The main point I have made is I want to be in a Liverpool side which challenges for the Champions League and the title all th
as well and I think what I have said the supporters will agree with. "We have to build on wins like that, not just settle for a gre
and I hope it turns out to be one of the most important for the club for a long time. "I know I put a lot of pressure on myself b
about how I feel."

Reds manager Rafael Benitez believes Gerrard can win everything he wants to without moving clubs. "Steven can win all he w
future," said Benitez. "But if we want to win more games, important games, we need Steven in the team. "We need his stren
this team."
Pearce keen on succeeding Keegan

Joint assistant boss Stuart Pearce has admitted he would like to succeed Kevin Keegan as manager at Manchester City.

Keegan has decided to step down as City manager when his contract comes to an end in 18 months. "You don't have to be Ein
will certainly be applying for it, although whether the board deem me good enough to take it, I do not know." Pearce initially
promoted to joint assistant-manager following the departure of Arthur Cox last summer.

The former England defender had a year as player-boss with Nottingham Forest eight seasons ago but has made no secret of
has stated he would not get in the way if Pearce wanted to leave. But it now appears Pearce is keen to wait for his chance at
look at me and they are aware of my feelings with regard to being Kevin's successor. "Obviously, the issue is out of my hands

Bomb threat at Bernabeu stadium

Spectators were evacuated from Real Madrid's Bernabeu stadium on Sunday following a bomb scare during the game betwee

More than 70,000 people abandoned the ground with the score at 1-1 and only three minutes left to play. The Basque newsp
But after searching the stadium with sniffer dogs, the police said that no explosive device had been found.

"The police have said they have completed their search and have not found anything," said Real Madrid president Florentino
private Spanish radio station Cadena Ser: "I have never seen this before and sport should be above it all." Real took the lead j
the match midway through the second half when Turkish striker Nihat Kahveci smashed home with an acrobatic finish. It is no
be allowed to stand.

If the result remains at 1-1, Real will drop to third place in the standings, 11 points behind leaders Barcelona, who snatched a
responsible for the bomb threat after issuing similar warnings before a series of small explosions in recent days. The Bernabe
League semi-final. A car bomb exploded in a street outside the stadium and 17 people were slightly injured.
Chelsea hold Arsenal

A gripping game between Arsenal and Chelsea ended with the honours finishing even at Highbury.

Thierry Henry produced a sublime strike to put Arsenal ahead but John Terry levelled with a powerful header. Henry's quickly
Gallas' knockback. Henry missed a golden chance when he blazed a shot high late on and Arsenal also had a penalty appeal re
striker headed a long Cesc Faregas ball back to Jose Antonio Reyes from the edge of the Chelsea area and immediately saw it
when he took one touch, turned and struck an angled strike past the despairing dive of keeper Petr Cech. Henry epitomised a

Gunners keeper Manuel Almunia, who got the nod ahead of Jens Lehmann, did well to save a well-struck Frank Lampard shot
set-pieces was again exposed. Almost immediately, Henry went close and Chelsea gathered the loose ball before going straig
minutes later when he struck a sweet shot only for Almunia to be equal to the task and save. The homes side regained the lea
25-yard set-piece quickly, Henry curled in a shot with Cech still organising his wall.

This time Arsenal did not allow Chelsea to level so soon as they went into the break ahead. Chelsea brought striker Didier Dro
Lampard swung in a cross which Gallas knocked back across goal and a deft header from Gudjohnsen levelled matters again. C
wide when left unmarked at the far post. The second half failed to live up to the thrilling pace of the opening period but there
through two Arsenal defenders only to see his poked shot saved by Almunia.

Arsenal ended the match the stronger and worked a excellent chance for Henry who put a left-foot shot high from eight yard
sidefooted just wide. Matthieu Flamini had a late penal appeal waved away before the final whistle which maintained Chelse

Almunia, Lauren, Toure, Campbell, Cole, Pires, Flamini, Fabregas, Reyes (Clichy 82), Bergkamp (Van Persie 82), Henry. Subs No

Cole.

Henry 2, 29.

Cech, Paulo Ferreira, Ricardo Carvalho (Drogba 45), Terry, Gallas, Duff, Tiago (Bridge 45), Makelele, Lampard, Robben, Gudjoh

Robben, Drogba, Lampard.

Terry 17, Gudjohnsen 46.

38,153

G Poll (Hertfordshire).

Real will finish abandoned match

Real Madrid and Real Socieded will play the final six minutes of their match, which was abandoned on Sunday because of a b

The Bernabeu was evacuated with the score at 1-1 and two minutes of normal time remaining in the game. The teams will no
England captain David Beckham had to wait in the street in their kit after the abandonment. Real Sociedad president Jose Lui

Hundreds of fans streamed across the pitch on their way to the exits after the game was called off. Tourists and fans took adv
met the Spanish FA on Monday and Astiazaran added: "We thought about giving the game as concluded but after talking with
remaining." Real Madrid director of sport Emilio Butragueno praised the spectators inside the ground for their conduct. "I'd li
citizenship," he said. Butragueno confirned, before confirming that Tuesday's charity match - which has been billed as "Ronal
that tomorrow's game will take place," Butragueno declared of the "Partido contra la Pobreza" (Game Against Poverty). He ad
a fiesta, we had programmed and people deserve to enjoy the game."
Poll explains free-kick decision

Referee Graham Poll said he applied the laws of the game in allowing Arsenal striker Thierry Henry's free-kick in Sunday's 2-2

Keeper Petr Cech was organising his defensive wall when Henry's quick free-kick flew in, which angered Chelsea. "The whistle
very polite. I said 'yes'," said Poll. "I deal with the laws of the game. I deal with fact." Poll added: "I gave the signal for him to t
FA Cup replay two years ago - when Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink scored - and I don't remember them complaining about that." H

Henry told BBC Radio Five Live: "The ref asked me if I wanted 10 yards or if I wanted to take it straight away and I said that I w
waiting for Eidur Gudjohnsen to move and give me some space. "At one point, he turned and that's when I tried it." Former re
offending team. On this occasion it was Arsenal," Don told BBC Radio Five Live. "Referees have been told to ask the player 'do
'quick', the referee tends to move away and allow the kick." Don was head of the referees for the Premier League and reveale
the Football League clubs in the summer of 2003 explaining what the situation was," he added "We gave them the option of e
were doing."

Solskjaer raises hopes of return

Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he hoped to return next season following a career-threatening injury to

The 31-year-old Norway international had surgery in Sweden in August to transplant cartilage into the joint. "I'm in no doubt
about eight months' time. It's going as it should with the knee. I'm slavishly following a programme." Solskjaer last played for
2006, by which time he will have been at the Premier League club for 10 years.

Dunne keen to commit to Man City

Richard Dunne is ready to commit his long-term future to Manchester City after turning his career around.

He was once threatened with the sack by City boss Kevin Keegan but has since responded with impressive performances, pro
something will be sorted out as soon as possible. "I definitely want to stay at City because I have really improved as a player h
form to be ready to make a bid for the big stopper in the January transfer window. But the 25-year-old Dubliner underlined h
is this one and what we do. "I really enjoy it at City and I want to keep that going." Keegan is expected to be told there will be
Keegan, who ordered the defender home after he allegedly turned up for training in a dishevelled state.

But Dunne is keen to put that period of his life behind him and said: "I've grown up a lot and the manager sees me as one of t
season so I can't be regarded as being a kid any more. "I have to use that as added pressure to perform and apart from the ga
boost when goalkeeper Nicky Weaver makes his long-awaited return in a reserve game at Blackburn on Tuesday. Former Eng
which eventually needed pioneering transplant surgery earlier this year.
Bates seals takeover

Ken Bates has completed his takeover of Leeds United.

The 73-year-old former Chelsea chairman sealed the deal at 0227 GMT on Friday, and has bought a 50% stake in the club. He
club that has fallen on hard times. "We have a lot of hard work ahead to get the club back where it belongs in the Premiership
a Geneva-based company known as The Forward Sports Fund. He revealed that part of his plan is to buy back Leeds' Elland Ro

"It's going to be a tough jon and the first task is to stabilise the cash flow and sort out the remaining creditors," Bates added.
now we can start running the club again." Outgoing Leeds chairman Gerald Krasner said: "This deal ensures the medium to lo
are content that under Mr Bates, Leeds United will continue to consolidate and move forward. "When we took over Leeds Un
the debt to under £25m. "We worked tirelessly to solve all of the problems at Leeds United. "Eighty percent of the problems
success." Krasner revealed that his consortium has been asked to remain in the background at the club for an undisclosed pe
continue in his role as director and point of contact for the fans and Peter McCormick will serve as a consultant to the incomi
next four years. On Leeds' new-look board it is understood that Lorimer will be joined by former Chelsea finance director Yvo

Krasner refused to give any details of the finances involved in the takeover. He told BBC Five Live: "I am not going into the figu
"This dea l is not about money for the current board. In the last four months I never saw any cheques until this week from on
Chelsea chairman in March last year following Roman Abramovich's £140m takeover at Stamford Bridge. In May, he made a p
had been close to a takeover of Leeds but withdrew his £25m offer last week.

His efforts failed after he revealed it would take £40m to stage a takeover, and that the club will also lose £10m over the next
League - before Bates' arrival but his investment has spared them that prospect.

Ferguson rues failure to cut gap

Boss Sir Alex Ferguson was left ruing Manchester United's failure to close the gap on Chelsea, Everton and Arsenal after his si

Premiership leaders Chelsea and the Gunners endured a 2-2 stalemate on Sunday, giving United the chance to make up some
points at the weekend. "It was a great opportunity - and we haven't delivered." United went ahead through Alan Smith in the
minute. Ferguson described the result as an "absolute giveaway" after United had earlier missed a host of opportunities to fin
just didn't finish them off. "In fairness, it's a fantastic strike from the Fulham player." The result leaves Ferguson's side fourth
Old Firm pair handed suspensions

Celtic's Henri Camara and Nacho Novo of Rangers have both been suspended for offences missed by the referee in a recent O

Both were given automatic one-match bans and 12 additional disciplinary points for their actions. That means Novo will miss
guilty of stamping on Celtic's Stephen Pearson. Camara was punished for kicking Gregory Vignal. "I'm extremely disappointed
"But what I will say is that I'm at a loss as to why that incident should be picked up and highlighted when there were so many
United and Rangers visit Kilmarnock unless they decide to appeal.

The additional bans come into effect from 28 December meaning Camara will also be unavailable for the home game against
said: "They have seven days to appeal but with matches coming along at the weekend they would need to do so before Frida
an appeals tribunal." Meanwhile, Bob Malcolm and Rangers have been informed by letter as to the outcome of the hearing re
the day, was taken from the Rangers dug-out and spoken to by police about an alleged gesture he made. But the SFA would n
in a position to make a comment on the findings," added the spokesman.

Anelka apologises for criticism

Manchester City striker Nicolas Anelka has issued an apology for criticising the ambitions of the club.

Anelka was quoted in a French newspaper as saying he would like to play in the Champions League for a bigger club. But chai
mistakenly taken from the French press. "We are a big club. Nicolas told me that he agrees with me that we are a big club." W
received any bids for the former Arsenal and Real Madrid striker. The club still owe French club PSG £5m from the purchase o
Steven Gerrard also revealed he is an admirer from his time on loan at Anfield. But Wardle added: "There's been no bids for N

"If a bid comes in for Nicolas Anelka I will speak to the board and then speak to Kevin Keegan. "If there was a bid and it was a
which we have clear out, so it would have to be above that." Wardle did stress that the club was not inviting any offers for En
someone comes with a silly bid I'll have to discuss it. "But we're not putting him on the shelf to sell. He is the heart and soul o
window. "He was an academy kid here, he's just signed a new four-year deal, I don't think he'd do that unless he wanted to p
they would try and find funds to bring in players in the January transfer window. He said: "Like Kevin I'd like to see some play
creative to generate some funds. But maybe we have to start looking at clubs like Everton and Bolton to see how they have b

Ferguson rues failure to cut gap

Boss Sir Alex Ferguson was left ruing Manchester United's failure to close the gap on Chelsea, Everton and Arsenal after his si

Premiership leaders Chelsea and the Gunners endured a 2-2 stalemate on Sunday, giving United the chance to make up some
points at the weekend. "It was a great opportunity - and we haven't delivered." United went ahead through Alan Smith in the
minute. Ferguson described the result as an "absolute giveaway" after United had earlier missed a host of opportunities to fin
just didn't finish them off. "In fairness, it's a fantastic strike from the Fulham player." The result leaves Ferguson's side fourth
Everton's Weir cools Euro hopes

Everton defender David Weir has played down talk of European football, despite his team lying in second place in the Premie

Weir told BBC Radio Five Live: "We don't want to rest on our laurels and say we have achieved anything yet. "I think you start
predictions you soon fall back into trouble. The only thing that matters is the next game." He said: "We are looking after each
suspensions haven't cost us too badly and we have a lot of self-belief around the place."

Spain coach faces racism inquiry

Spain's Football Federation has initiated disciplinary action against national coach Luis Aragones over racist comments about

If found guilty Aragones could lose his job or face a fine of about £22,000. The federation had initially declined to take action
president Angel Maria Villar changed his mind after a request by Spain's anti-violence commission. Aragones insisted the com
were not intended to be offensive.

"I never intended to offend anyone, and for that reason I have a very easy conscience," he said at the time. "I'm obliged to m
can all understand each other within the framework of the football world. " England's players made a point of wearing anti-ra

But the storm increased following racist chanting by Spanish fans at England's black players during the game, which Spain wo
decision. "Everyone who has a public function has to consider their declarations, and make sure they do not give a negative im

Spain coach faces racism inquiry

Spain's Football Federation has initiated disciplinary action against national coach Luis Aragones over racist comments about

If found guilty Aragones could lose his job or face a fine of about £22,000. The federation had initially declined to take action
president Angel Maria Villar changed his mind after a request by Spain's anti-violence commission. Aragones insisted the com
were not intended to be offensive.

"I never intended to offend anyone, and for that reason I have a very easy conscience," he said at the time. "I'm obliged to m
can all understand each other within the framework of the football world. " England's players made a point of wearing anti-ra

But the storm increased following racist chanting by Spanish fans at England's black players during the game, which Spain wo
decision. "Everyone who has a public function has to consider their declarations, and make sure they do not give a negative im
Benitez deflects blame from Dudek

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has refused to point the finger of blame at goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek after Portsmouth claime

Dudek fumbled a cross before Lomana LuaLua headed home an injury-time equaliser, levelling after Steven Gerrard put Liver
from Matthew Taylor and it ended up like a shot, so I don't blame him for what happened." Benitez admitted it was a costly lo
draw. He said: "We had many opportunities but didn't score and, in the end, a 1-0 lead was not enough. "If you don't have an
is nothing you can say to the players. It was a pity. "We lost two points, but we have one more point in the table. Now we hav

Bellamy fined after row

Newcastle have fined their Welsh striker Craig Bellamy two weeks' wages - about £80,000 - following his row with manager G

But Bellamy, 25, has not been put on the transfer list, although he did not train with the first team on Tuesday. Magpies chair
thinking he is bigger than this club. "No individual is, be it the chairman, the manager or a player." Souness dropped Bellamy
out of position. "When I heard what the manager was saying I was in shock," Bellamy said. "I thought 'not only has he gone b
to apologise. "I won't apologise because I have done nothing wrong," he told the Evening Chronicle. "There's no doubt about
weekend, and has led to a war of words in the media.

Bellamy's claim that Souness had lied about the background to the bust-up was strongly denied by Shepherd, who accused th
Shepherd. "Craig walked off the training ground saying his hamstring was tight (on Friday), but what he failed to reveal was th
Graeme discovered this he immediately ordered Bellamy to attend a meeting in my office. "At that meeting Bellamy admitted
off. "He also agreed at that meeting to apologise to his team-mates for his behaviour. He didn't do this which resulted in the a
club, the supporters, the manager and his own team-mates. "He is paid extremely well and I consider his behaviour to be tota

Bellamy's latest outburst would appear to make his chances of a first-team recall remote. But even before Newcastle said the
want the fans to think for one minute that I wouldn't play for this club," he said. "I'd play anywhere for this club, even in goal
so much to me. I couldn't do it because I know I couldn't come back here and play against Newcastle. It would hurt too much

McClaren eyes Uefa Cup top spot

Steve McClaren wants his Middlesbrough team to win their Uefa Cup group by beating Partizan Belgrade.

Boro have already qualified for the knockout stages alongside Partizan and Villareal, at the expense of Lazio. But boss McClar
in Friday's third-round draw. "To need a win to finish top is fantastic, but it is going to be a tough one," McClaren said. "When
favourites, Villarreal have been semi-finalists, and Partizan have fantastic experience in Europe. "The pleasing thing is we did
fantastic experience playing these teams."
Spurs to sign Iceland U21 star

Tottenham are primed to snap up Iceland Under-21 international Emil Hallfredsson after he impressed on trial at White Hart

The 20-year-old midfielder, who plays for FH Hafnarfjordur, also starred in the Uefa Cup match against Scottish side Dunferm
had offers from two other clubs but he decided to come to Tottenham," said Spurs sporting director Frank Arnesen. "He is a l
we decided to take him. "It's down the road of bringing in talent, good prospects and giving them a place at Tottenham wher

McLeish ready for criticism

Rangers manager Alex McLeish accepts he is going to be criticised after their disastrous Uefa Cup exit at the hands of Auxerre

McLeish told BBC Radio Five Live: "We were in pole position to get through to the next stage but we blew it, we absolutely ble
have to take it as we have done in the past and we must now bounce back." McLeish admitted his team's defending was ama

"I'm very disappointed because we didn't give ourselves a chance, losing the first goal from our own corner. It was amateur,"
same kind of chances as we did in the first half. "It's difficult to take positives from the game. We've let the fans down."

O'Leary agrees new Villa contract

Aston Villa boss David O'Leary signed a three-and-a-half year contract extension on Thursday, securing his future at the club u

O'Leary's future was in question, but Villa chairman Doug Ellis said he was happy to secure the deal. "David's record since his
Villa's website. "For this reason it was important we got this right." O'Leary put pen to paper after deals were sorted for his ri
of my team, should stay for the same time," O'Leary said on Thursday ahead of signing his new deal. "Someone has to try and
were rumours O'Leary would quit if he is not offered a new deal before the end of the season.

But he denied that, saying he was happy to take on the challenge of improving Villa's fortunes in the long term. "I want to ma
in the Premiership on a regular basis," said O'Leary, who took over at Villa Park in May 2003. "But to achieve that, and take th
possible to set us on the way." Meanwhile, O'Leary has rapped skipper Olof Mellberg for his comments before Sunday's derb

Mellberg spoke of his dislike of Villa's rivals ahead of the match, which Steve Bruce's side won 2-1. "I've had more than a quie
"You shouldn't leave yourself open to be shot down. You shouldn't give people the chance to take cheap shots at you and he
Gronkjaer agrees switch to Madrid

Jesper Gronkjaer has agreed a move to Atletico Madrid from Birmingham City.

The 27-year-old winger spent just five months at St Andrews following a £2.2m move from Chelsea in July after playing for De
about £1.4m, subject to a medical. "We will meet with the player's representative to finalise the contract and decide when he
was sarcastically applauded when taken off against Everton last month. Boss Steve Bruce had said that he would be happy to
him go is down to the fans' reaction towards him.

"He has had a tough time since the summer with the loss of his mother and finding it difficult to adjust to a new club and a di
brought them home you would be delighted. "It just hasn't quite worked out here for him. But we'd like to get back most of w

Benitez 'to launch Morientes bid'

Liverpool may launch an £8m January bid for long-time target Fernando Morientes, according to reports.

The Real Madrid striker has been linked with a move to Anfield since the summer and is currently behind Raul, Ronaldo and M
Djibril Cisse out until next season. "If there is an attractive propostition it could be I would be keen to leave," admitted the 28
Real and they will make any decisions." The fee could put Liverpool off a prospective deal but Real are keen to net the cash as
currently sixth in the Premiership, 15 points behind leaders Chelsea.

Robertson out to retain Euro lure

Hearts manager John Robertson hopes a place in the knock-out stages of the Uefa Cup could help keep some of his out-of-co

"It could help. If we get through and have another European tie it may encourage players to stay at least until the end of the
think whether they are going to get other clubs like that should they decide to move on." A win for Robertson's side against F
player's prerogative but the fact that we've been playing European football for the last three or four years is obviously an ince
committed and a run in Europe always helps a little bit." With the game being played at Murrayfield instead of Tynecastle bec

"The pitch is not in the greatest condition. The Heineken Cup game was there at the weekend and the pitch is a bit threadbar
perform. That's the most important thing." But he added: "If Tynecastle could have hosted 30,000 it would have been fantasti
"There will be a good atmosphere and the Hearts fans have an important role to play. "We need their encouragement, we ne
players will respond to that and I know they will because it's a fantastic European night for the club."
Sol Campbell proved to be an unlikely match-winner to earn Arsenal a hard-fought win at Portsmouth.

The England defender lashed home a 25-yard shot for his first goal in 16 months to take Arsenal back into second spot, five p
striker Ricardo Fuller. In the first half he blasted wide when clear, and his control let him down in the second half when well p
their marking was slack at a corner and Patrick Vieira should have done better when the ball fell to him 16 yards out. A mistak
down on goal Linvoy Primus got in a saving tackle. With just Fuller as an out-and-out striker, Portsmouth's shape made life diffi
angle was too tight for his shot to trouble Jamie Ashdown.

Ashdown caused hearts to flutter on 28 minutes when he missed his punch at a corner and Kolo Toure headed just wide and,
Henry took a quick return pass from Vieira but Ashdown was out quickly to block, and there were some anxious seconds for P
should have taken the lead on 34 minutes. Referee Howard Webb played a good advantage to allow Steve Stone to send Gar
yards. As half-time approached, Henry teased a shot through a ruck of players and inches wide. At the other end, Fuller broke

Fuller was given the best chance of the match so far on 48 minutes when Patrik Berger's break and slipped pass played him cl
under Vieira's challenge, referee Webb was not interested. Fuller paid the price when he gave way on 55 minutes to Aiyegben
handling from Ashdown to cling on to Van Persie's shot as Henry sniffed for scraps.

Portsmouth were growing in confidence and keeper Manuel Almunia had to stand his ground to beat away a powerful shot fr
Campbell. The England defender needed little invitation as Pompey backed off to stride forward and lash a ferocious shot pas
his marker to flash a header wide from Henry's free-kick. Almunia went full length to grab Berger's long-range shot, while Ash

Ashdown, Griffin, De Zeeuw, Primus, Taylor, Stone, O'Neil, Faye (Berkovic 83), Berger, LuaLua, Fuller (Yakubu 55).

Subs not used: Hislop, Quashie, Cisse.

Almunia, Lauren, Toure, Campbell, Cole, Pires, Flamini, Vieira, Clichy, Van Persie (Bergkamp 68), Henry.

Subs not used: Lehmann, Fabregas, Senderos, Hoyte.

Cole.

Campbell 75.

20,170.

H Webb (S Yorkshire).
Reds sink 10-man Magpies

Titus Bramble's own goal put Liverpool on the comeback trail as injury-hit Newcastle were well beaten at Anfield.

Patrick Kluivert's close-range finish put Newcastle ahead after 31 minutes, but they were pegged back as Bramble headed in S
before the Czech added a third after rounding Shay Given on the hour. Newcastle then had Lee Bowyer sent off for two book
to draft in Kluivert after Craig Bellamy was a late withdrawal with a back injury sustained in the warm-up. And Garcia should h
wildly over the top from eight yards. Olivier Bernard was only inches away from giving Newcastle the lead after 20 minutes, w
highly controversial circumstances.

Kluivert looked suspiciously offside when Kieron Dyer set Bowyer free, but the Dutchman was then perfectly placed to score f
corner into his own net under pressure from Sami Hyypia. And Liverpool were ahead after 37 minutes when Baros slid a perfe
finishing was wayward, and he was wasteful again in first-half injury time, shooting tamely at Given after good work by Xabi A
pass by Harry Kewell set Baros free and he rounded Given to score. Jermaine Jenas then missed a glorious chance to throw N
had already been booked for a foul on Alonso, was deservedly shown the red card by referee Graham Poll for a wild challenge

Dudek, Finnan, Hyypia, Carragher, Riise, Luis Garcia (Nunez 73), Gerrard, Alonso, Kewell (Traore 85), Baros, Mellor (Sinama Po

Subs not used: Hamann, Harrison.

Bramble 35 og, Mellor 38, Baros 61.

Given, Andrew O'Brien, Elliott, Bramble, Bernard, Bowyer, Dyer (Ambrose 80), Jenas, Milner (N'Zogbia 72), Kluivert (Robert 58

Subs not used: Harper.

Bowyer (77).

Bowyer, Elliott, Bernard.

Kluivert 32.

43,856.

G Poll (Hertfordshire).

Strachan turns down Pompey

Former Southampton manager Gordon Strachan has rejected the chance to become Portsmouth's new boss.

The Scot was Pompey chairman Milan Mandaric's first choice to replace Harry Redknapp, who left Fratton Park for rivals Saint
the Southampton manager," Strachan told the BBC. Club director Terry Brady held initial talks with Strachan on Saturday. The
"It's got everything going for it but I've got too many memories of the other side and I don't want to sour those memories," h
atmosphere at the ground. "There's lots to do but it's not right for somebody who has just been the Southampton manager."
team affairs.

The duo had gone five matches unbeaten until Sunday's 1-0 defeat at home to champions Arsenal, but the club are still in a re
announcing his intention to take a break from the game at the end of the 2003-04 season. His previous managerial experienc
Henry tipped for Fifa award

Fifa president Sepp Blatter hopes Arsenal's Thierry Henry will be named World Player of the Year on Monday.

Henry is on the Fifa shortlist with Barcelona's Ronaldinho and newly-crowned European Footballer of the Year, AC Milan's An
and organise the game." The winner of the accolade will be named at a glittering ceremony at Zurich's Opera house. The thre
Prinz and Brazilian youngster Marta.

Hamm, who recently retired - is looking to regain the women's award, which she lost last year to striker Prinz. Fifa has change
able to vote, as well as their coaches and Fipro - the global organisation for professional players.

Newcastle to join Morientes race

Newcastle have joined the race to sign Real Madrid striker Fernando Morientes and scupper Liverpool's bid to snap up the pla

Liverpool were reported to have bid £3.5m for the 28-year-old Spanish international this week. But the Liverpool Echo newsp
Anelka. Real are believed to still want £7m before selling Morientes. Monaco are also in the race for the player they had on lo
before bowing out of any deal.

On Tuesday, Morientes had said: "I like Liverpool and I am pleased that a club of their stature want to buy me. I have told Ma
me. They must sort out the situation by being sensible. "I am in a position where I want to play, and I will have to look elsewh
realistic.

"I haven't spoken to Rafa Benitez but I have always appreciated his work and I would like to play for him. But Benitez could ye
Liverpool. Anelka previously played at Anfield under Gerard Houllier before sealing his permanent switch to Manchester City.

Blues slam Blackburn over Savage

Birmingham have confirmed Blackburn made a bid for Robbie Savage - but managing director Karen Brady has called it "deris

Rovers have reportedly offered £500,000 up front for the Wales star, 30, with the fee rising to £2.2m. But Brady told The Sun
affect the relationship between the clubs. They've got into Robbie's head. But he's not for sale." Savage's future at Birmingha
the club earlier in the season. However, good displays against West Brom and Aston Villa have impressed Blues fans. "The cro
fantastic even though I was criticised by a number of them in recent weeks and on Saturday it showed how much I mean to t
speculation myself, I haven't phoned every national newspaper saying, 'Blackburn are trying to buy me'. It's not up to me." Bi
Sav but he has been terrific for Birmingham City the last two and a half years," he said.

"The fans love him because he epitomises them. He works hard, They like people like that and there are not many like him. "A
Gerrard happy at Anfield

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has reiterated his desire to stay at Anfield and win trophies with the club.

The 24-year-old England midfielder is determined to see out his contract, despite reported interest from Chelsea. He said: "I'm
that's not down to me. "As club captain all I want to do is help us get back up the table and into the Champions League again.
Bridge has again arisen, with the January transfer window approaching. He raised doubts about his Reds future when he said
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has insisted that Gerrard has promised him he wants to stay at Anfield. Benitez said: "I said to S

"I then said to him 'Look, if you want to win titles, you want medals and you want Liverpool to have these things then I am go
stronger for him." Meanwhile, Gerrard has urged the Anfield board to sign Real Madrid striker Fernando Morientes in the Jan
added: "He's a great player. He scores goals in the league, in cup competitions and also in the Champions League. "I don't thin
ourselves a great player.

"He'd have Spanish coaches, a Spanish manager and we have got three or four Spanish players here now so they'll help him s
the right players become available at the right price I am sure we will strengthen. "It would certainly be nice to see a few new

Beckham rules out management move

Real Madrid midfielder David Beckham has no plans to become a manager when his playing career is over.

"I am not interested in being a coach but I would like to have football schools," the England captain said on television station
London and one in LA. "My second passion is charity work - I am an ambassador for Unicef and it gives me great pride." But B

Real slipped to 13 points behind leaders Barcelona with a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Sevilla on Wednesday. Beckham admitte
to win La Liga with Real Madrid - I have been here two years and we still have not done it." In a wide-ranging interview, Beckh
most significant moment in his career. Asked for his worst memory, he said: "To be sent off against Argentina - it was not for
Ferguson, who supported me and a strong family behind me but I believe that changed me. "I believe it changed me for the b
Mexicans tracking unhappy Juninho

Mexican outfit Red Sharks Veracruz hope to sign Juninho if the Brazilian decides to leave Celtic frustrated at his lack of first-te

Their president, Gustavo Parente Sanchez, says Juninho "does not wish to remain in Scottish football anymore". Agent Brian H
manager is not going to pick him, that's a different ball game," he told The Sun. "That's something we'd have to look at. Junin
Celtic unless he is given a run of games by the end of the January transfer window.

Juninho was signed from Middlesbrough during the summer, but he has failed to live up to high expectations and has lost his
made," insisted Hassell. "He wants to play for Martin O'Neill, but does Martin O'Neill want to play him? "Juninho is not someo
his hopes of prising Juninho from the Scottish champions, although Hassell believes Mexico would not be his preferred destin
Veracruz will be his destination," Sanchez told his club's official website. Celtic manager O'Neill is no respecter of reputations.
the way it has always been and that is certainly the case at Celtic Park."

Celtic unhappy over Bulgaria date

Martin O'Neill hopes to block Stilian Petrov's call-up by Bulgaria during Celtic's busy festive programme.

The Celtic manager does not view the friendly against Valenciana - a region of Spain - on 28 December as important. "I can't s
speak with the Bulgarian FA. It's their prerogative for them to arrange a fixture and our prerogative how we handle it." Bulgar
Livingston. O'Neill believes the extra game will not help a midfielder whose season has already been affected by injury. "They
spoke with the Bulgarian manager, Hristo Stoichkov, and he mentioned this game to me. "We pay his wages, we are the ones
rather than anyone else. "I have said this before, but Bulgaria are the one nation who seem to organise a lot of friendly game
Robben and Cole earn Chelsea win

Cheslea salvaged a win against a battling Portsmouth side just as it looked like the Premiership leaders would have to settle fo

Arjen Robben curled in a late deflected left-footed shot from the right side of Pompey's box to break the home side's brave re
injury-time. Nigel Quashie had Pompey's best chance when his effort was tipped over. The Fratton Park crowd were in good v
out two early chances. Striker Didier Drogba snapped in an angled shot to force home keeper Shaka Hislop into a smart save w
and unsettled a Chelsea side as the south-coast side started to gain the upper hand and almost took the lead through Quashi

The midfielder struck a swerving long range shot which keeper Petr Cech tipped over at full stretch. Pompey stretched Arsena
struggling to exert any pressure. Velimir Zajec's players stood firm as the visitors came out in lively fashion after the break bu
get a sight of goal and struck a fierce shot which rocked keeper Hislop back as he blocked before Arjan de Zeeuw cleared the

The home side were also left breathing a sigh of relief when a Glen Johnson header fell to Gudjohnsen who had his back to go
but put his effort over. But, just like against Arsenal, Portsmouth let in a late goal when Robben's shot took a deflection off M
when he put a low shot into the bottom of the Pompey net.

Hislop, Griffin, Primus, De Zeeuw, Taylor, Stone (Cisse 76), Quashie (Berkovic 83), Faye, O'Neil, Kamara (Fuller 65), Yakubu.

Subs Not Used: Berger, Ashdown.

Kamara.

Cech, Paulo Ferreira, Gallas, Terry, Johnson, Duff, Makelele, Smertin (Cole 73), Lampard, Robben (Geremi 81), Drogba (Gudjoh

Subs Not Used: Cudicini, Bridge.

Paulo Ferreira, Robben, Lampard.

Robben 79, Cole 90.

20,210

A Wiley (Staffordshire).

Newcastle line up Babayaro

Newcastle manager Graeme Souness is closing in on signing Chelsea defender Celestine Babayaro when the transfer window

Souness is bidding to bolster his defence and, according to reports, contract negotiations are at an advanced stage with the p
Anderlecht. But the 26-year-old has been surplus to requirements this season. Souness would not be drawn on specifics over

But he said: "All I can tell you is that the chairman has worked really hard in the last couple of months to try to do deals. "We
weeks."
Mourinho takes swipe at Arsenal

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has attempted to pile the pressure on title rivals Arsenal ahead of the Gunners facing Newcastle

Arsenal will play the Magpies a day after Chelsea beat Portsmouth during a busy festive programme. And Mourinho said: "Th
the television schedule. "All my players are tired, especially John Terry."

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho admitted his side were "lucky" to win at Fratton Park but is still unhappy with the amount of gam
in three days which is foreign to many of my players and, although I understand the traditions of football here at this time of

"You can sit back and smoke cigars, one after another, and it is a good life, but it is not actually good for you. "Playing so man

Wenger shock at Newcastle dip

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted he is at a loss to explain why Newcastle are languishing in the bottom half of t

The Gunners travel to St James' Park on Wednesday, with Newcastle 14th in the Premiership after a troubled season. And We
don't know how they got to be where they are. It looks to me from the outside that they have many injuries."

Arsenal go into the game on the back of a 2-0 victory over Fulham on Sunday. And Wenger added: "The best way to prepare f
a part in the next few weeks as we have players coming back so I can rotate a bit more. "We do not play a season with 11 pla
Robert Pires, scored against Fulham. And Henry afterwards described the display as "beautiful to watch". He said: "What matt
enjoyable when you play like we did against Fulham. "We are playing as a team and that is important because there were som

Ferguson hails Man Utd's resolve

Manchester United's Alex Ferguson has praised his players' gutsy performance in the 1-0 win at Aston Villa.

"That was our hardest away game of the season and it was a fantastic game of football, end-to-end with lots of good passing,
at that fixture and think we've been there and won, while Arsenal and Chelsea have yet to come and Villa may have some pla
bench for the injured John O'Shea. "Roy came on and brought a bit of composure to the midfield which we needed and which
we can do is maintain our form, play as we are and we'll get our rewards."
TV calls after Carroll error

Spurs boss Martin Jol said his team were "robbed" at Manchester United after Pedro Mendes' shot clearly crossed the line bu

"The referee is already wearing an earpiece so why can't we just stop the game and get the decision right," said Jol after the 0
feel robbed but it's difficult for the linesman and referee to see it." Mendes shot from 50 yards and United goalkeeper Roy Ca
ball being a couple of centimetres or an inch or two over the line, it was a metre inside the goal. "What really annoys me is th
occurring and the referee isn't told about it.

"We didn't play particularly well but I am pleased - even now - with a point, although we should have had three." Mendes cou
celebrate. "It was a very nice goal, it was clearly over the line - I've never seen one so over the line and not given in my career
memory even though it didn't count. "It's not every game you score from the halfway line." Manchester United manager Sir A
technology. "I think it hammers home what a lot of people have been asking for and that's that technology should play a part
"But I read an article the other day which suggested that if a referee can't make up his mind after 30 seconds of watching a vi

"Thirty seconds is about the same amount of time it takes to organise a free-kick or take a corner or a goal-kick. So you would
would be an opening into a new area of football." Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger also used the incident to highlight the need fo
Old Trafford, that just reinforces what I feel - there should be video evidence," said Wenger. "It's a great example of where th

FA charges Mourinho

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association.

The move follows comments on Chelsea TV after the Carling Cup semi-final first leg draw against Manchester United. Mourin
Chelsea boss, who has until 14 February to respond, said: "In the second half it was whistle and whistle, fault and fault, cheat
John Terry after the match. Terry said: "With most refs and being captain, you can maybe have a word, but he just wasn't will
context of these comments, (and) decided that it is not appropriate to take formal disciplinary action."

Clean sweep impossible - Mourinho

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho says his side have little chance of winning all four major trophies this season.

The Blues are seven points clear in the league after beating Middlesbrough, and into the Carling Cup semi-finals and the Cham
trophies," Mourinho admitted. "But we have a good squad and we are trying. We have the FA Cup on Saturday and the Carlin
each competition seriously. Chelsea face Scunthorpe on Saturday and he added: "We have watched them like we watch any o
win the FA Cup. We will play to win the Carling Cup. "Winning the Premiership or the Champions League is more important bu
games and assistant boss Steve Clarke says that has put them on course for the title. "We can be a big threat because we've g
the standard we've set for ourselves. Before the Christmas period we set ourselves a target of 12 points, we've got those 12 p
champions. "There's a long way to go. We're out in front, we're enjoying being out in front and we're just focused on what we
Wenger refuses to give up title

Arsene Wenger refused to concede the title, despite Arsenal falling seven points behind Chelsea after their 1-1 draw with Ma

He said: "We have to believe we can come back and give everything in every game. For us to give up and say Chelsea have wo
not look like dropping seven points. "But we will still give our best until the end of the season." Wenger blamed his side's mou
beat City. "We were too inexperienced," he added. "That doesn't take anything away from the qualities of the team who play
mental qualities in the second half were outstanding. We had chance after chance and I feel sorry for the team, we should ha
Robin van Persie standing in for first-team regulars. But Wenger reiterated his intention to stay out of the transfer market and
our championship," he added. "Sometimes you have a draw like that. Do you want me to say it's over? I won't say that. All we
overhaul the seven-point gap to Chelsea from City boss Kevin Keegan. "I still think Arsenal will be the champions, even though
quality sides around you and Arsenal could go on a run of 30 or 40 games again - they're an amazing side."

Henchoz prefers England to Gers

Rangers could miss out on Liverpool defender Stephane Henchoz because he wants to continue playing in England.

The Ibrox club have offered a deal to the Swiss international, 30, who is out of contract at the end of the season and has been
Wednesday, but Henchoz said: "Actually I would like to stay in the Premiership. "Rangers' offer is not the only one and I will h
manager Rafael Benitez. Rangers want him as a replacement for Jean-Alain Boumsong, who has moved to Newcastle for £8m
offer as he wants at least an 18-month deal. Henchoz has played just four times for Liverpool this season and has yet to play i

Keane returns to Republic squad

Manchester United skipper Roy Keane is back in the Republic of Ireland squad for the 9 February friendly against Portugal at L

Keane was rested for the last game with Croatia in November but has been recalled as boss Brian Kerr prepares for a World C
Macken are all back after injury. Chelsea winger Damien Duff is set to win his 50th international cap. Kerr has named a 27-ma
perfect preparation for our next World Cup game against Israel in Tel Aviv on 26 March," said Kerr. "The likes of Stephen Ellio
"It is good to have players like them around to fit into the squad system if there are any injuries or suspensions." The Republi
and Switzerland.

Given (Newcastle), Kenny (Sheffield United), Murphy (Walsall), Carr (Newcastle), Finnan (Liverpool), O'Brien (Newcastle), Bree
(Manchester United), Maybury (Leicester), Miller (Manchester United), Quinn (Sheffield United), Roy Keane (Manchester Uni
Barrett (Coventry), Lee (Cardiff), Elliott (Sunderland), McGeady (Celtic), Robbie Keane (Tottenham), Macken (Manchester City
Newcastle move in for Boa Morte

Newcastle manager Graeme Souness has confirmed Fulham striker Luis Boa Morte is his latest transfer target.

Souness wants to add the £3m-rated Portugal international to his revamped squad during the transfer window. He said: "We
before this window goes past." Souness may offer Olivier Bernard, Titus Bramble or Lee Bowyer as bait in a deal for the 27-ye
Celestine Babayaro, a £1m capture from Chelsea, as he revamps his squad. Fulham have insisted Boa Morte is not for sale and

Sanchez targets NI win in Warsaw

Northern Ireland manager Lawrie Sanchez has targeted the 30 March game in Poland as their most important in the World Cu

While fans are savouring the prospect of playing England at Old Trafford four days earlier, Sanchez knows the Polish clash hol
sure of second," said Sanchez. "I would like to beat England but the Poland game is most important." Sanchez's side are curre
Northern Ireland need to make up ground in Warsaw.

"I do not think qualifying for this World Cup is closed yet but we have to beat Poland to keep it open," said Sanchez. "If we do
qualifying. "I want to get Northern Ireland back in the finals of a major competition and I also aim to get into the top 100 of th
9 February friendly and Sanchez will be giving some fringe players the opportunity to catch his eye. "We have one or two inju
James Quinn are suspended for the England game so it gives me the chance to have a look at other players who might come i
end to our run without a home win." Northern Ireland have not won at home under Sanchez. Indeed, their last Windsor succe

FAI secures £7m sponsorship deal

The Football Association of Ireland has signed a £7million, six-year sponsorship deal with Umbro.

The deal is the second largest in sponsorship in FAI history. It will bring in £4.8m in cash and be worth more than £2m in kit su
and lasting benefits to the development of the next generation of people who want to play football", said FAI chief John Dela
football community with the support they need." The Football Association of Ireland is set to announce a major new sponsor
Euro sponsorship agreement". The news is a further boost to the FAI after the recent decision of the Irish Sports Council to re
of the FAI after Fran Rooney's departure in November. Under Delaney's leadership, the FAI has agreed to Irish government de
organisation within the FAI when it was published in 2003.
Highbury will be our Cup final

Arsenal is a very special place for me because it is one of the few away games I remember going to when I was a boy.

I can't remember what the year was but I was so young I was in short trousers. My father worked for English Steel Corporatio
particular year they were going to London to watch Arsenal play.

I remember him smuggling me on to the bus then into the Imperial Hotel, which I remember vividly, and then smuggling me o
it is a memory I will never forget. It was a marvellous game, the Arsenal fans were absolutely brilliant and all the Sheffield Un

We lost 1-0 but our centre-half Joe Shaw was, for me, the best player in the world that day. On Saturday my son, who at thre
daughter is the mascot. I think it will have the same effect on him - I don't think you forget things like that. I think the next tim
top flight and lost 2-0, but I took Huddersfield down there for the second leg of the League Cup and got a draw. I think they e
George Graham made one or two comments that made us pretty determined and had they not equalised late on we would h
number of letters and messages I got from Arsenal fans regarding the behaviour of our fans and our team was quite outstand
at Old Trafford. I felt personally hard done by. You don't mind getting beat but in this particular case I think everybody saw th
comments I made about referee Graham Poll, though I would not take any of those back. But that's how it has gone for us. Th
well with them. I would have liked a Football League official but Neale Barry, who is an experienced referee, has been awarde
referee on Saturday after watching them demolish Crystal Palace on Monday.

I turned it off after they scored three goals in about eight minutes and watched Bambi with the kids. Since I have watched the
and would have paid anything to watch. One was Eric Cantona and another was Gianfranco Zola, who I thought was absolute
touches. His movement, footballing brain and awareness - and at nearly 36 - is incredible. I don't think any adjective is good e
doubt they will be thinking of resting a few players for their Champions League game on Tuesday, but I am doing the same fo
Cup final, I feel like we have already got to the final - we have earned the money we set out to earn for the club and now we
team Arsenal play it is going to be a hell of a difficult task to get anything - we are just thinking about being respectable. After
a two-horse race.

People ask me if we have done anything different in our preparations this week? We have...nothing! The players have been to
anything. They have done stretches and warm downs but very little football because of tiredness. On Thursday we will work o
just close your eyes and get your fingers crossed. When they are on their game there is not much you can do about them.
Beckham defends form for England

England captain David Beckham insists he is not concerned by criticism of his displays for club and country.

"As long as I'm happy with my form for Real Madrid and England, whatever anybody else says doesn't really matter," said Bec
the last month has been my best month for a while. "There are a lot of important games coming up, for Real and for England.

The midfielder feels that new coach Wanderley Luxemburgo's arrival at Madrid has lifted the Spanish giants. "Since the turn o
football than we had been over the last few months," Beckham explained. "He's totally changed things around - I think we're

"That's shown in the games we've played under him - even the six-minute game, which was a great start for him. "It's pushed
forward to 2005 - we're seven points behind Barcelona but things are looking up for us. "In any season, I want to win as many
ahead to next week's first England game of 2005, Beckham is keen to test his form on the international stage. "It's important
"It's always nice to play in England games, but it's important to have friendlies, as it's good to get prepared for the qualifiers w
much as possible, but the manager can also try younger players out."

Beckham has also been gripped by the excitement of the Premiership title race this season. "There aren't many leagues like it
"Chelsea seem to be running away with it a little bit, but Manchester United keep winning, and no-one can forget what Arsen
Arsenal team - but the player who always catches the eye for me is Thierry Henry - he's a great player and a really good perso
Chelsea are doing so well this year."

Beckham hints at Man Utd return

England captain David Beckham said he would return to Manchester United if he ever leaves Real Madrid.

Beckham left United in July 2003 after falling out with Sir Alex Ferguson and has been linked with a return to London if he dec
definitely," he told the Daily Mirror. "Manchester United were the club that I grew up with and felt that I would always be the
prove in Spain.

"I have been here for a year and a half and I have not played my best football in the past few months," he said. "But I am hap
Spanish league and the Champions League." Meanwhile, Beckham said he would fight for his international place amid pressu
he has been playing and I am genuinely pleased to see him doing so well," he said.

"People ask me if I'm worried about him. I'm not worried because I am proud of the England team and I want the best for it. "
person and I am pleased for young kids coming through. We are talking about team-mates of mine. "Shaun is a threat to me b
the England team in 2006. I believe I will be England captain for that World Cup."