Haroon Lorgat, the International Cricket Council's (ICC) chief executive, says that cricket's governing body will not sacrifice bilateral cricket for Twenty20 leagues and try to regulate the latest format to ensure that.
"All these tournaments are springing up and what we are trying to do is regulate them in a more effective way," Lorgat told the Guardian. "A private businessman might have different ambitions but we have to protect the game of cricket.
"Twenty20 is an opportunity that people have spotted they can take advantage of, but that doesn't detract from what has been agreed by all members that we will not sacrifice nation-v-nation cricket. Everyone recognises its importance. People are not disregarding it."
There has been plenty of criticism of the growing importance put on Twenty20 cricket, a lucrative proposition across the globe. Most of it has centred around the Indian Premier League's (IPL) second edition, provisionally scheduled for April-May 2009, which clashes with Sri Lanka's tour of England and its third season, which will clash with Bangladesh's tour of England.
"Out of a difficult situation can come a lot of good," Lorgat said. "If there wasn't an interest in the sport there wouldn't be so many challenges. I would rather come into a scenario where things are moving at great speed, with new forms of cricket and a new audience."
The first edition of the IPL, devised by Board of Control for Cricket in India vice-president Lalit Modi, was a huge success and the inaugural Champions League -- backed by the Indian board -- will be held in India from December 3-10, where two teams each from India, Australia and South Africa, and Middlesex and Pakistan's Twenty20 champion will compete.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Tahir renews Hants deal
Pakistani leg-spinner Imran Tahir has signed a new contract with Hampshire which will keep him with the southern English county for another two years, it was announced Wednesday.
Tahir has had a dramatic effect on Hampshire's fortunes this season since making his club debut in July, helping transform the Rose Bowl-based side from seeming certainties for relegation to having an outside shot at becoming county champions for the first time in 35 years.
Before the final round of matches, which started on Wednesday, Tahir had taken 36 wickets in six Championship fixtures at a meagre average of just over 17 apiece.
It looked as if he would miss the last match of the season, away to Nottinghamshire, the First Division leaders, when he was recalled for pre-season training by the Titans before the South African franchise relented and allowed him to play at Trent Bridge.
"This is fantastic news for Hampshire cricket and all our members and supporters," Hampshire chairman Rod Bransgrove said.
"'Immy' has made a massive contribution to Hampshire cricket since his arrival in July and he has become a real favourite both in the dressing room and with our members and spectators.
"I am extremely pleased that he has chosen to commit himself to Hampshire for the next two seasons - and I am sure that he will continue to be one of the most potent and successful spinners on the county circuit."
Tahir, 29, added: "I am very grateful to Hampshire for giving me the opportunity to continue to play for this amazing club."
News that Tahir would be staying with Hampshire came on the same day the county revealed that England Under-19 all-rounder Liam Dawson would be staying at the Rose Bowl for a further three years.
Dawson has enjoyed a fine first full county season, with the 18-year-old left-arm spinner and middle-order batsman nominated for the Cricket Writers' Young Cricketer of the Year award, won this month by England's Ravi Bopara.
"I'm delighted to have signed a new three-year contract with Hampshire," said Dawson, who effectively counts as a homegrown product after being born and brought-up in the neighbouring county of Wiltshire, which does not have a first-class cricket team.
"The club have shown a lot of faith in me and I hope to repay with good performances."
Acting team manager Giles White added: "The long-term deal Liam has been offered reflects how highly he is regarded.
"We see him playing a big part in Hampshire cricket's future. I can't think of a more exciting young prospect in the country."
Hampshire's Tahir-inspired push for the title has come in their first season since former captain and Australia leg-spin great Shane Warne left the county after retiring from first-class cricket.
Tahir has had a dramatic effect on Hampshire's fortunes this season since making his club debut in July, helping transform the Rose Bowl-based side from seeming certainties for relegation to having an outside shot at becoming county champions for the first time in 35 years.
Before the final round of matches, which started on Wednesday, Tahir had taken 36 wickets in six Championship fixtures at a meagre average of just over 17 apiece.
It looked as if he would miss the last match of the season, away to Nottinghamshire, the First Division leaders, when he was recalled for pre-season training by the Titans before the South African franchise relented and allowed him to play at Trent Bridge.
"This is fantastic news for Hampshire cricket and all our members and supporters," Hampshire chairman Rod Bransgrove said.
"'Immy' has made a massive contribution to Hampshire cricket since his arrival in July and he has become a real favourite both in the dressing room and with our members and spectators.
"I am extremely pleased that he has chosen to commit himself to Hampshire for the next two seasons - and I am sure that he will continue to be one of the most potent and successful spinners on the county circuit."
Tahir, 29, added: "I am very grateful to Hampshire for giving me the opportunity to continue to play for this amazing club."
News that Tahir would be staying with Hampshire came on the same day the county revealed that England Under-19 all-rounder Liam Dawson would be staying at the Rose Bowl for a further three years.
Dawson has enjoyed a fine first full county season, with the 18-year-old left-arm spinner and middle-order batsman nominated for the Cricket Writers' Young Cricketer of the Year award, won this month by England's Ravi Bopara.
"I'm delighted to have signed a new three-year contract with Hampshire," said Dawson, who effectively counts as a homegrown product after being born and brought-up in the neighbouring county of Wiltshire, which does not have a first-class cricket team.
"The club have shown a lot of faith in me and I hope to repay with good performances."
Acting team manager Giles White added: "The long-term deal Liam has been offered reflects how highly he is regarded.
"We see him playing a big part in Hampshire cricket's future. I can't think of a more exciting young prospect in the country."
Hampshire's Tahir-inspired push for the title has come in their first season since former captain and Australia leg-spin great Shane Warne left the county after retiring from first-class cricket.
Jankovic on course
World number two Jelena Jankovic continued her bid for the top women's ranking with an opening win in the China Open Wednesday as local favourite Zheng Jie restored wounded local pride.
Top seed Jankovic will play Daniela Hantuchova in the quarterfinals in Beijing after beating Canada's Aleksandra Wozniak 6-3, 7-5 on a rain-interrupted day.
A tournament win here for Jankovic, who had a brief spell as world number one in August, would take her to within a handful of points of Serena Williams at the top of the women's game.
The Serbian was pushed hard by her powerful opponent in a hard-fought second set but eventually prevailed.
In a see-saw match earlier in the evening Hantuchova, the Slovakian seventh seed, beat Tamarine Tanasugarn 6-1, 0-6, 7-5.
The world number 13 looked set for a routine victory after taking the first set easily but her Thai opponent came back strongly.
"The conditions were extremely difficult and the balls were so heavy it was difficult to put any winners past her because she was moving so well," said Hantuchova.
"I've never played in this cold. There was fog coming out of my mouth. I thought maybe I should go skiing instead of playing tennis," she added.
Play was suspended until mid-afternoon due to steady rain, but when the action got underway, China's Zheng completed a comfortable 6-2, 6-3 win over Agnieszka Radwanska.
Her win came after four players from the host nation crashed out of the women's draw Tuesday, including the country's top player Li Na.
Wimbledon semi-finalist Zheng said her first round victory over the 10th-ranked Pole would be a boost.
"To beat a top-ten player I think will give me more confidence and I hope I will end the year with a higher ranking," added Zheng, who reached a career-high of number 27 in 2006.
In other first round results Wednesday, men's fifth seed Fernando Verdasco eased through against Bobby Reynolds 6-3, 6-3 and US eighth seed Sam Querrey survived a scare, battling back against compatriot Jesse Levine to win 1-6, 6-2, 7-6.
Jankovic and fellow Serb Ana Ivanovic are the top two seeds at the 600,000-dollar China Open, with both chasing the women's number one spot.
In the men's 524,000-dollar tournament, 2007 champion and Olympic silver medallist Fernando Gonzalez, who starts his defence Thursday, will face a tough battle to retain his title in Beijing, with top seeds David Ferrer and Andy Roddick in the hunt.
Top seed Jankovic will play Daniela Hantuchova in the quarterfinals in Beijing after beating Canada's Aleksandra Wozniak 6-3, 7-5 on a rain-interrupted day.
A tournament win here for Jankovic, who had a brief spell as world number one in August, would take her to within a handful of points of Serena Williams at the top of the women's game.
The Serbian was pushed hard by her powerful opponent in a hard-fought second set but eventually prevailed.
In a see-saw match earlier in the evening Hantuchova, the Slovakian seventh seed, beat Tamarine Tanasugarn 6-1, 0-6, 7-5.
The world number 13 looked set for a routine victory after taking the first set easily but her Thai opponent came back strongly.
"The conditions were extremely difficult and the balls were so heavy it was difficult to put any winners past her because she was moving so well," said Hantuchova.
"I've never played in this cold. There was fog coming out of my mouth. I thought maybe I should go skiing instead of playing tennis," she added.
Play was suspended until mid-afternoon due to steady rain, but when the action got underway, China's Zheng completed a comfortable 6-2, 6-3 win over Agnieszka Radwanska.
Her win came after four players from the host nation crashed out of the women's draw Tuesday, including the country's top player Li Na.
Wimbledon semi-finalist Zheng said her first round victory over the 10th-ranked Pole would be a boost.
"To beat a top-ten player I think will give me more confidence and I hope I will end the year with a higher ranking," added Zheng, who reached a career-high of number 27 in 2006.
In other first round results Wednesday, men's fifth seed Fernando Verdasco eased through against Bobby Reynolds 6-3, 6-3 and US eighth seed Sam Querrey survived a scare, battling back against compatriot Jesse Levine to win 1-6, 6-2, 7-6.
Jankovic and fellow Serb Ana Ivanovic are the top two seeds at the 600,000-dollar China Open, with both chasing the women's number one spot.
In the men's 524,000-dollar tournament, 2007 champion and Olympic silver medallist Fernando Gonzalez, who starts his defence Thursday, will face a tough battle to retain his title in Beijing, with top seeds David Ferrer and Andy Roddick in the hunt.
Georgia can play WC qualifiers at home
Georgia can play their next two World Cup qualifying home matches in the capital Tbilisi, FIFA said Tuesday, after the calming of hostilities in the former Soviet republic.
Georgia, who sit bottom of Group 8 after two defeats, are to play Cyprus on October 11 and Bulgaria four days later as they bid for a place at the finals in South Africa in 2010.
The global footballing authority said it would continue to monitor the situation in the war-torn country, but that "it did not see anything to suggest that the organisation and security for these matches will not be assured."
Georgia were forced to play their 'home' tie against the Republic of Ireland on September 6 in Germany after fighting broke out with Russia in August.
Georgia, who sit bottom of Group 8 after two defeats, are to play Cyprus on October 11 and Bulgaria four days later as they bid for a place at the finals in South Africa in 2010.
The global footballing authority said it would continue to monitor the situation in the war-torn country, but that "it did not see anything to suggest that the organisation and security for these matches will not be assured."
Georgia were forced to play their 'home' tie against the Republic of Ireland on September 6 in Germany after fighting broke out with Russia in August.
Platini slates Wenger
England's League Managers' Association (LMA) said Wednesday it was "astonished and dismayed" by the recent verbal attacks on Arsene Wenger by UEFA president Michel Platini.
In an interview with the French daily newspaper the Dauphine Libere, former France captain Platini criticised his compatriot for having a business rather than a football mentality.
The head of European football's governing body also attacked the Arsenal manager for calling for the introduction of video replays to rule on questionable refereeing decisions.
Later in the interview, Platini again targeted Wenger when asked about his thoughts on Romanian side CFR Cluj's unexpected victory over Roma in the Champions League last week.
"That is what makes football so great," Platini said. "It is what people like Wenger do not want, little clubs beating the big clubs, because they want their business."
Wenger said he was "stunned" by Platini's words and Howard Wilkinson, the LMA chairman added: "Platini has made serious and personal comments about one of football's greatest ever managers, who is also counted among our most respected members.
"If Platini wishes to address certain issues with Arsene Wenger this would better be done privately and not in the public domain," said the former Leeds manager, who had a brief caretaker spell in charge of England.
"I believe Arsene has always acted in the best interests of the game."
In an interview with the French daily newspaper the Dauphine Libere, former France captain Platini criticised his compatriot for having a business rather than a football mentality.
The head of European football's governing body also attacked the Arsenal manager for calling for the introduction of video replays to rule on questionable refereeing decisions.
Later in the interview, Platini again targeted Wenger when asked about his thoughts on Romanian side CFR Cluj's unexpected victory over Roma in the Champions League last week.
"That is what makes football so great," Platini said. "It is what people like Wenger do not want, little clubs beating the big clubs, because they want their business."
Wenger said he was "stunned" by Platini's words and Howard Wilkinson, the LMA chairman added: "Platini has made serious and personal comments about one of football's greatest ever managers, who is also counted among our most respected members.
"If Platini wishes to address certain issues with Arsene Wenger this would better be done privately and not in the public domain," said the former Leeds manager, who had a brief caretaker spell in charge of England.
"I believe Arsene has always acted in the best interests of the game."
Gomez back in form
After the nightmare of his Euro 2008 flop, Germany striker Mario Gomez is enjoying his return to form with seven goals in seven games for VfB Stuttgart ahead of next month's World Cup qualifiers.
The 23-year-old scored 28 goals in 32 games for his club last season only to end up being dropped from the Germany team during die Mannschaft's journey to the Euro 2008 final, but has rediscovered his form this season.
Having created a goal and scored one himself in last Sunday's 3-1 Bundesliga win over Karlsruhe, Gomez is hoping to force his way back into the Germany team for October's World Cup qualifiers against Russia and Wales.
"That goal (against Karlsruhe) was for everyone who has tried to talk me into believing I was suffering a crisis," said Gomez, who has also scored six goals for Germany in 17 appearances.
With Germany playing Russia in Dortmund on October 11 and Wales four days later in Moenchengladbach, Gomez is hoping to feature in coach Joachim Loew's plans ahead of Bayern Munich strikers Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski.
Having started all three group games for Germany at Euro 2008, Gomez was dropped for the quarter and semifinals, before coming off the bench with 11 minutes left of the final in Vienna as Spain went on to claim a 1-0 win.
Gomez admits he started to doubt himself as the tournament progressed, but says it was all "good life experience".
"What happened to me actually did me some good, since then things have picked up and it helps to have something negative to compare it to.
The 23-year-old scored 28 goals in 32 games for his club last season only to end up being dropped from the Germany team during die Mannschaft's journey to the Euro 2008 final, but has rediscovered his form this season.
Having created a goal and scored one himself in last Sunday's 3-1 Bundesliga win over Karlsruhe, Gomez is hoping to force his way back into the Germany team for October's World Cup qualifiers against Russia and Wales.
"That goal (against Karlsruhe) was for everyone who has tried to talk me into believing I was suffering a crisis," said Gomez, who has also scored six goals for Germany in 17 appearances.
With Germany playing Russia in Dortmund on October 11 and Wales four days later in Moenchengladbach, Gomez is hoping to feature in coach Joachim Loew's plans ahead of Bayern Munich strikers Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski.
Having started all three group games for Germany at Euro 2008, Gomez was dropped for the quarter and semifinals, before coming off the bench with 11 minutes left of the final in Vienna as Spain went on to claim a 1-0 win.
Gomez admits he started to doubt himself as the tournament progressed, but says it was all "good life experience".
"What happened to me actually did me some good, since then things have picked up and it helps to have something negative to compare it to.
Owen sad at Keegan exit
Newcastle captain Michael Owen has said he and his team-mates were "saddened" to see manager Kevin Keegan quit but warned the Magpies they had to "snap out of the doom".
The Premier League side, put up for sale by owner Mike Ashley, have lost their last three matches and on Wednesday take on basement side Tottenham, the only team below them in the top flight, in the League Cup.
England striker Owen, whose goal couldn't prevent Newcastle being beaten by West Ham last weekend, said: "We all liked Kevin Keegan and we were sad to see him go.
"We are all feeling it at the moment - but we have got to snap out of the doom and gloom and try and get some confidence and results, and at the minute, not picking up the results is hurting the players.
"We are as much in the dark as the fans as to the next move and it does not make it any easier as Kevin Keegan was very popular with the players and the fans."
Owen has played under four managers since arriving at St James' Park from Real Madrid in 2005 - Graeme Souness, who signed him, Glenn Roeder, Sam Allardyce and Keegan.
"You almost become immune to these happenings in football nowadays and I have seen plenty in my time," said Owen, who made his name at Liverpool.
"I had three managers in the space of a few months at Real Madrid.
"It's unfortunate but that's the way it goes. But players are paid to play and we have got to go out there and perform."
Newcastle have been put up for sale after owner Mike Ashley bowed to fan pressure and agreed to cut his links with the club.
Amidst all the speculation surrounding the future of the north-east side, there have been reports of several players wanting to leave the club but long-serving goalkeeper Steve Harper, who was at Newcastle during Keegan's first spell as manager, insisted those comments were wide of the mark.
"People talk about 11 or 12 players wanting to leave - I have been in that dressing room for a long time, but recently, I have not heard one person say they want to leave this club," Harper said.
"We are in a difficult position at the minute which a result tomorrow (Wednesday) night would lift us out of. We are a small, tight-knit squad."
The Premier League side, put up for sale by owner Mike Ashley, have lost their last three matches and on Wednesday take on basement side Tottenham, the only team below them in the top flight, in the League Cup.
England striker Owen, whose goal couldn't prevent Newcastle being beaten by West Ham last weekend, said: "We all liked Kevin Keegan and we were sad to see him go.
"We are all feeling it at the moment - but we have got to snap out of the doom and gloom and try and get some confidence and results, and at the minute, not picking up the results is hurting the players.
"We are as much in the dark as the fans as to the next move and it does not make it any easier as Kevin Keegan was very popular with the players and the fans."
Owen has played under four managers since arriving at St James' Park from Real Madrid in 2005 - Graeme Souness, who signed him, Glenn Roeder, Sam Allardyce and Keegan.
"You almost become immune to these happenings in football nowadays and I have seen plenty in my time," said Owen, who made his name at Liverpool.
"I had three managers in the space of a few months at Real Madrid.
"It's unfortunate but that's the way it goes. But players are paid to play and we have got to go out there and perform."
Newcastle have been put up for sale after owner Mike Ashley bowed to fan pressure and agreed to cut his links with the club.
Amidst all the speculation surrounding the future of the north-east side, there have been reports of several players wanting to leave the club but long-serving goalkeeper Steve Harper, who was at Newcastle during Keegan's first spell as manager, insisted those comments were wide of the mark.
"People talk about 11 or 12 players wanting to leave - I have been in that dressing room for a long time, but recently, I have not heard one person say they want to leave this club," Harper said.
"We are in a difficult position at the minute which a result tomorrow (Wednesday) night would lift us out of. We are a small, tight-knit squad."
Benzema valued at 100m euros
Lyon have slapped a 100 million euro price tag on France international starlet Karim Benzema, according to club president Jean-Michel Aulas on Tuesday.
The 20-year-old, voted last year's player of the year, has got off to a flyer again this season, netting five times to top the French first division's goalscoring chart.
His cool and intelligent 85th minute goal against Fiorentina last week earned Lyon a vital Champions League point, and saved French blushes in the tournament after both Bordeaux and Marseille were defeated.
"We have signed a contract with him until 2013, with a get-out clause of 100 million euros," said Aulas, adding that Benzema was integral to their bid for Champions League glory, a tournament in which they have never progressed past the last 16.
Benzema has attracted interest from a host of top European clubs, and has been linked with a move to Manchester United.
Since 2007 he has become a permanent fixture in France coach Raymond Domenech's plans, featuring in their Euro 2008 championship campaign.
The 20-year-old, voted last year's player of the year, has got off to a flyer again this season, netting five times to top the French first division's goalscoring chart.
His cool and intelligent 85th minute goal against Fiorentina last week earned Lyon a vital Champions League point, and saved French blushes in the tournament after both Bordeaux and Marseille were defeated.
"We have signed a contract with him until 2013, with a get-out clause of 100 million euros," said Aulas, adding that Benzema was integral to their bid for Champions League glory, a tournament in which they have never progressed past the last 16.
Benzema has attracted interest from a host of top European clubs, and has been linked with a move to Manchester United.
Since 2007 he has become a permanent fixture in France coach Raymond Domenech's plans, featuring in their Euro 2008 championship campaign.
Possebon avoids broken leg
Rodrigo Possebon, the Manchester United youngster on the receiving end of a horror tackle by Middlesbrough's Emanuel Pogatetz, has not broken his right leg, as first feared, the club confirmed on Wednesday.
The 19-year-old Brazilian midfielder had to be given oxygen and was stretchered off after Pogatetz's x-rated challenge in the second half of United's 3-1 League Cup win at Old Trafford on Tuesday evening
A club spokesman said: "We can confirm that Rodrigo did not suffer a break to his right leg. He was kept in hospital overnight for observation and to assess whether there was any ligament damage to his knee."
Pogatetz received a straight red card for the challenge, which his manager Gareth Southgate admitted he could not defend, and is now facing a ban of at least three matches.
The 19-year-old Brazilian midfielder had to be given oxygen and was stretchered off after Pogatetz's x-rated challenge in the second half of United's 3-1 League Cup win at Old Trafford on Tuesday evening
A club spokesman said: "We can confirm that Rodrigo did not suffer a break to his right leg. He was kept in hospital overnight for observation and to assess whether there was any ligament damage to his knee."
Pogatetz received a straight red card for the challenge, which his manager Gareth Southgate admitted he could not defend, and is now facing a ban of at least three matches.
German Cup: Schalke, Bremen thru'
Germany defender Heiko Westermann hit two second-half goals to seal Schalke 04's 2-0 win over Hanover and put the Royal Blues into the German Cup's third round alongside Werder Bremen on Tuesday.
Bundesliga leaders Schalke had few problems as Westermann struck in the 56 and 78th minutes to put his side through.
"I am pleased with the result," said Royal Blues coach Fred Rutten.
"We only had one chance in the first-half, but after the break we were superior, although we still have things to work on."
Werder, seventh in the Bundesliga thanks to their 5-2 hammering of defending champions Bayern Munich on Saturday, had to come from behind to win 2-1 at third division Erzgebirge Aue to reach next January's third round.
Aue's Fabian Muller put the home side ahead after just seven minutes, Bremen's hard-working Peru striker Claudio Pizarro equalised for the guests on 26 minutes.
And Swedish striker Markus Rosenberg scored his third goal in two games - after his Bundesliga brace in Munich last Saturday - on 54 minutes to give his side the winner.
"That was a difficult game for us, but we expected a hard game along the way," said Bremen coach Thomas Schaaf.
"Aue played well and demanded a lot from us. We are glad we are in the next round."
Bundesliga strugglers Energie Cottbus made the third round by converting all three of the penalties they were rewarded to claim a 3-0 win over Borussia Moechengladbach as Italian midfielder Ervin Skela slotted home two second-half spot-kicks.
Second division Mainz had no trouble beating Cologne 3-1, while Eintracht Frankfurt were another Bundesliga side beaten by a side from the league below when they fell 2-1 to Hansa Rostock after extra-time.
Rostock striker Enrico Kern hit the winner in the 101st minute of extra-time to put the second division side through to the next round.
Bayer Leverkusen made the third round with a 2-0 win at second division Augsburg while 1860 Munich beat Duisburg 5-4 on penalties.
In Wednesday night's second round ties, German Cup holders Bayern Munich take on Bavaria neighbours Nuremberg while last season's beaten finalists Borussia Dortmund entertain Hertha Berlin.
Zola facing cash crisis
New West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola has admitted he may not be allowed to strengthen his squad in January as the club faces up to a potential 30-million-pound bill for the Carlos Tevez affair.
According to media reports on Wednesday, the London club are contemplating an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport over an FA-appointed independent tribunal's ruling that Tevez had been instrumental in keeping West Ham in the Premier League two seasons ago when he was not eligible to play for them.
But for Tevez's illegal contribution to the Hammers cause, Sheffield United would have survived in the top flight and the Yorkshire club are now seeking 30 million pounds in damages to cover lost television income, reduced player values and other losses incurred as a result of relegation.
Zola refused to blame the turmoil created by the tribunal's ruling for Tuesday night's shock League Cup exit at the hands of Championship side Watford.
The Hammers were beaten 1-0 at Vicarage Road because of a Hayden Mullins' own goal 20 minutes from time which was the result of a debutant goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka's failure to gather a Lee Williamson free-kick.
Afterwards, former Chelsea star Zola admitted he was in the dark about the club's finances, but insisted he would not be overly concerned if there is no cash to spend during the next transfer window.
"Let me have these concerns if that happens," he said. "It's something the club is handling right now, when the decision is made then we'll make some considerations.
"We have to keep working like this with this squad until January anyway and I'm happy to do that."
West Ham have dismissed reports that key players were sold last month in anticipation of the tribunal's ruling.
The departures of Anton Ferdinand and George McCartney triggered the resignation of Alan Curbishley as manager, clearing the way for Zola to take over.
According to media reports on Wednesday, the London club are contemplating an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport over an FA-appointed independent tribunal's ruling that Tevez had been instrumental in keeping West Ham in the Premier League two seasons ago when he was not eligible to play for them.
But for Tevez's illegal contribution to the Hammers cause, Sheffield United would have survived in the top flight and the Yorkshire club are now seeking 30 million pounds in damages to cover lost television income, reduced player values and other losses incurred as a result of relegation.
Zola refused to blame the turmoil created by the tribunal's ruling for Tuesday night's shock League Cup exit at the hands of Championship side Watford.
The Hammers were beaten 1-0 at Vicarage Road because of a Hayden Mullins' own goal 20 minutes from time which was the result of a debutant goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka's failure to gather a Lee Williamson free-kick.
Afterwards, former Chelsea star Zola admitted he was in the dark about the club's finances, but insisted he would not be overly concerned if there is no cash to spend during the next transfer window.
"Let me have these concerns if that happens," he said. "It's something the club is handling right now, when the decision is made then we'll make some considerations.
"We have to keep working like this with this squad until January anyway and I'm happy to do that."
West Ham have dismissed reports that key players were sold last month in anticipation of the tribunal's ruling.
The departures of Anton Ferdinand and George McCartney triggered the resignation of Alan Curbishley as manager, clearing the way for Zola to take over.
Ribery boost for Bayern
Bayern Munich coach Jurgen Klinsmann said Wednesday his side have welcomed back joker Franck Ribery to get the German giants back on track ahead of next week's Champions League game against Lyon.
Ribery, 25, was set to play his first game for three months on Wednesday night in the German Cup against Nuremberg having battled back from surgery following torn ankle ligaments in June.
After defending champions Bayern were demolished 5-2 at home last Saturday by title rivals Werder Bremen, Klinsmann says the return of joker Ribery in training on Monday gave his glum side a huge boost.
"The team has enjoyed having its joker back," Klinsmann told German sports agency SID.
And Ribery's teammates said his presence is just as important for moral on the pitch as off it.
"We need Franck in order to play to our full potential," said Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger.
"A player like him can decide a move with his vision and cheek.
"He has to play if he is fit."
French side Lyon are Bayern's next Champions League opponents at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday and Ribery's return is perfectly timed to give him some match practice.
After Bayern's German Cup game on Wednesday, Ribery will also line up against Hanover 96 on Saturday in the Bundesliga and admits he needs the game time.
"I have done a lot of work alone with the physio - five or six weeks - so it has been nice to train with the team again," he said.
"What I need now is match practice."
Ribery tore the ankle ligaments in June playing for France against Italy at Euro 2008, but having won the Bundesliga title with Bayern last season, the Frenchman says he is very happy in Munich.
"I am with a big club, I have no thoughts of leaving," said Ribery, who joined Bayern for 25 million euros last summer and is under contract until 2011.
"I want to win the title again and I want to play like the fans enjoy."
Ribery, 25, was set to play his first game for three months on Wednesday night in the German Cup against Nuremberg having battled back from surgery following torn ankle ligaments in June.
After defending champions Bayern were demolished 5-2 at home last Saturday by title rivals Werder Bremen, Klinsmann says the return of joker Ribery in training on Monday gave his glum side a huge boost.
"The team has enjoyed having its joker back," Klinsmann told German sports agency SID.
And Ribery's teammates said his presence is just as important for moral on the pitch as off it.
"We need Franck in order to play to our full potential," said Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger.
"A player like him can decide a move with his vision and cheek.
"He has to play if he is fit."
French side Lyon are Bayern's next Champions League opponents at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday and Ribery's return is perfectly timed to give him some match practice.
After Bayern's German Cup game on Wednesday, Ribery will also line up against Hanover 96 on Saturday in the Bundesliga and admits he needs the game time.
"I have done a lot of work alone with the physio - five or six weeks - so it has been nice to train with the team again," he said.
"What I need now is match practice."
Ribery tore the ankle ligaments in June playing for France against Italy at Euro 2008, but having won the Bundesliga title with Bayern last season, the Frenchman says he is very happy in Munich.
"I am with a big club, I have no thoughts of leaving," said Ribery, who joined Bayern for 25 million euros last summer and is under contract until 2011.
"I want to win the title again and I want to play like the fans enjoy."
Carling Cup Gunners drub Blades
Arsene Wenger enjoyed a night to savour as another generation of young stars stepped off the Arsenal production line to inflict a 6-0 drubbing on an experienced Sheffield United side on Tuesday.
The youngest starting line-up ever sent out by the club -- with an average age of just 19 -- put the Blades to the sword with a pass-and-move masterclass that resulted in an embarrassingly one-sided League Cup 3rd round tie in which Mexican teenager Carlos Alberto Vela claimed a hat-trick.
Danish striker Nicklas Bendtner, who scored both of Arsenal's first two goals, may be on the fringes of Wenger's first-team squad.
But this was proof that the Gunners' reserves of youthful talent run deep with Alberto Vela's hat-trick sandwiched around a 25-yard strike from 16-year-old Jack Wilshere.
Cristiano Ronaldo celebrated his first start for Manchester United since the Champions League final with a goal as Sir Alex Ferguson's side beat ten-man Middlesbrough 3-1 at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo began his quest to match last season's 42-goal tally by heading in a Ryan Giggs corner midway through the first half.
His effort was cancelled out by Adam Johnson's volley early in the second half but Ryan Giggs restored the home side's lead after Middlesbrough had been reduced to ten men following the straight red card issued to Emmanuel Pogatetz for a horrendous challenge on Brazilian teenager Rodrigo Possebon.
Ronaldo's compatriot Nani completed an ultimately comfortable win with United's third at the death.
Liverpool took a leaf out of Arsenal's book by naming a second-string side for their Anfield clash with League One's Crewe.
But they could not match the Gunners in terms of quality as they laboured to a 2-1 win.
Danish centreback Daniel Agger hammered in a 15th-minute freekick to get Liverpool off to a positive start.
But Crewe claimed a deserved equaliser through Michael O'Connor ten minutes later and Liverpool struggled to break down the visitors until Brazilian Leiva Lucas restored the lead with a close-range header.
Championship side Burnley pulled off the biggest upset of the night when they knocked out the Premier League's Fulham, courtesy of an 88th-minute strike from 19-year-old local boy Jay Rodriguez.
Watford also claimed a Premier League scalp with an own goal by Hadyn Mullins condemning West Ham to their first defeat under new manager Gianfranco Zola.
Elsewhere, Swansea emerged victorious from their south Wales derby clash with Cardiff, courtesy of Jordi Gomez's goal.
Sunderland needed two late goals from Anthony Stokes to force their clash with Northampton into extra-time before finally coming through by winning the penalty shoot-out 4-3.
Premiership newcomers Stoke were also forced into extra-time after twice being pegged back by Reading but they also survived penalties, winning the shoot-out 4-3.
Div II football
Gazirchot Sporting Club came from behind to play out a 1-1 draw with Euro Famous Club in the Second Division Football League at the Kamalapur Stadium yesterday.
Shohag put Euro Famous ahead in the 49th minute before Kalu scored the equaliser six minutes later.
Uttar Baridhara take on Friends Social Welfare Organisation in the day's match at the same venue.
Shohag put Euro Famous ahead in the 49th minute before Kalu scored the equaliser six minutes later.
Uttar Baridhara take on Friends Social Welfare Organisation in the day's match at the same venue.
'It's upto the seniors'
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Niranjan Shah on Wednesday put the onus on the senior cricketers to inform the board or the selection committee about their future retirement plans to enable a smooth transition in the Indian team.
"The senior players, who can be phased out in two or three years, should make their own (retirement) plans and inform the BCCI or selection committee. Like Rahul (Dravid) had done when quitting India captaincy. Like Anil (Kumble) did when retiring from ODIs," Shah told PTI.
There's been a big debate among cricket fans about the future of the fab-four batsmen (Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman) as well as Test captain Anil Kumble following the poor display by them in the last Test series in Sri Lanka, which India lost to the hosts.
"The senior players, who can be phased out in two or three years, should make their own (retirement) plans and inform the BCCI or selection committee. Like Rahul (Dravid) had done when quitting India captaincy. Like Anil (Kumble) did when retiring from ODIs," Shah told PTI.
There's been a big debate among cricket fans about the future of the fab-four batsmen (Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman) as well as Test captain Anil Kumble following the poor display by them in the last Test series in Sri Lanka, which India lost to the hosts.
Bayliss wishes Krejza well
Jason Krejza, Australia's uncapped off-spinner, has won an endorsement from his former mentor, the Sri Lanka coach Trevor Bayliss, ahead of the India Test series. Bayliss coached Krejza at New South Wales and he believes his propensity to turn the ball sharply could make him a dangerous weapon in India.
"He's a big spinner of the ball, and that could be an advantage," Bayliss told the Age. "If he does play, he could be a bit like Harbhajan [Singh]. He could bowl some big-turning, bouncing balls that can be difficult to play."
Krejza's selection in the 15-man squad was a surprise and he is no certainty to play a Test on the tour. An attacking bowler who likes flighting the ball, Krejza moved to Tasmania during the 2006-07 season to further his prospects.
Bayliss said during their time together at New South Wales, Krejza had been working on a delivery that was not unlike Ajantha Mendis' carrom ball. Bayliss oversaw the recent Test series in Sri Lanka where his side beat India 2-1 and Mendis was named Player of the Series for his 26 wickets.
"He's a big spinner of the ball, and that could be an advantage," Bayliss told the Age. "If he does play, he could be a bit like Harbhajan [Singh]. He could bowl some big-turning, bouncing balls that can be difficult to play."
Krejza's selection in the 15-man squad was a surprise and he is no certainty to play a Test on the tour. An attacking bowler who likes flighting the ball, Krejza moved to Tasmania during the 2006-07 season to further his prospects.
Bayliss said during their time together at New South Wales, Krejza had been working on a delivery that was not unlike Ajantha Mendis' carrom ball. Bayliss oversaw the recent Test series in Sri Lanka where his side beat India 2-1 and Mendis was named Player of the Series for his 26 wickets.
Asif awaits IPL hearing
Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Asif said Tuesday he was anxiously waiting for a hearing before an Indian doping tribunal so he can get a chance to clear his name.
Asif, 25, faces a two-year ban after he tested positive for the banned steroid nandrolone during the Indian Premier League (IPL) competition held between April and June of this year.
The Pakistan Cricket Board suspended him. His B sample also tested positive in August, and since then he has been waiting for a hearing before a three-member tribunal set up by the IPL.
"I am anxiously waiting to put my case before the IPL tribunal because I want to get my name cleared and return to where I belong -- cricket grounds," Asif told AFP.
Asif said discrepancies in the level of nandrolone in the two samples (6.2 nanograms per millilitre in the A sample and 5.4 in the B sample) could help him.
"I am confident that I will get cleared on the basis of discrepancies in the quantity, but the first thing is to get a hearing where I could prove myself," he added.
The tribunal, comprising former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, doctor Ravi Bapat and lawyer Shirish Gupte, asked Asif to appear on August 30, but the paceman asked them to push it back.
Any ban would be imposed by the IPL. The decision of the body, which is under the aegis of the International Cricket Council, would apply to both national and international cricket.
But Asif said that since the postponement he had not heard from the IPL.
Asif's lawyer Shahid Karim said he had sent a reminder to the IPL but there had been no reply.
Asif, who is in Karachi to play club cricket, said he wants to play for Pakistan as soon as possible.
"I have already missed a lot of cricket," said Asif, who along with fellow paceman Shoaib Akhtar also tested positive for the same substance in 2006.
He was then banned for one year and Akhtar for two, but the bans were overturned on appeal.
Asif, suspended after the latest doping offence, also faces a possible ban or fine from the Pakistan Cricket Board after he was detained in Dubai, while returning from the IPL, on charges of possessing an illegal drug.
He was held for 19 days before police deported him.
Asif said the last few months have been frustrating for him.
"My whole career has suffered badly in the last few months and once I return I will make sure that no untoward incident happens again," he said.
The IPL tribunal will study the issue and take a decision in accordance with the International Cricket Council's anti-doping code.
Asif has played 11 Tests and 31 one-day matches for Pakistan since making his debut in Australia in early 2005.
Asif, 25, faces a two-year ban after he tested positive for the banned steroid nandrolone during the Indian Premier League (IPL) competition held between April and June of this year.
The Pakistan Cricket Board suspended him. His B sample also tested positive in August, and since then he has been waiting for a hearing before a three-member tribunal set up by the IPL.
"I am anxiously waiting to put my case before the IPL tribunal because I want to get my name cleared and return to where I belong -- cricket grounds," Asif told AFP.
Asif said discrepancies in the level of nandrolone in the two samples (6.2 nanograms per millilitre in the A sample and 5.4 in the B sample) could help him.
"I am confident that I will get cleared on the basis of discrepancies in the quantity, but the first thing is to get a hearing where I could prove myself," he added.
The tribunal, comprising former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, doctor Ravi Bapat and lawyer Shirish Gupte, asked Asif to appear on August 30, but the paceman asked them to push it back.
Any ban would be imposed by the IPL. The decision of the body, which is under the aegis of the International Cricket Council, would apply to both national and international cricket.
But Asif said that since the postponement he had not heard from the IPL.
Asif's lawyer Shahid Karim said he had sent a reminder to the IPL but there had been no reply.
Asif, who is in Karachi to play club cricket, said he wants to play for Pakistan as soon as possible.
"I have already missed a lot of cricket," said Asif, who along with fellow paceman Shoaib Akhtar also tested positive for the same substance in 2006.
He was then banned for one year and Akhtar for two, but the bans were overturned on appeal.
Asif, suspended after the latest doping offence, also faces a possible ban or fine from the Pakistan Cricket Board after he was detained in Dubai, while returning from the IPL, on charges of possessing an illegal drug.
He was held for 19 days before police deported him.
Asif said the last few months have been frustrating for him.
"My whole career has suffered badly in the last few months and once I return I will make sure that no untoward incident happens again," he said.
The IPL tribunal will study the issue and take a decision in accordance with the International Cricket Council's anti-doping code.
Asif has played 11 Tests and 31 one-day matches for Pakistan since making his debut in Australia in early 2005.
Bradman bat sold for record price
Donald Bradman's first Test cricket bat sold at auction here late Wednesday for a record 145,000 dollars (121,938 US dollars), the auction house said.
An Australian bidder acquired the bat, which was signed by the country's greatest cricketer and the entire 1928-29 Test team and their English rivals.
"This is a record price for a cricket bat and there were several bidders, all of them within Australia, hoping to win the auction," a spokeswoman for Leski Auctions told national news agency AAP.
Bradman, who died in 2001 aged 92, is Australia's greatest sporting legend and maintains an unbeaten Test batting average of 99.94 some 60 years after his last match.
The bat sold at auction was used on Bradman's Test debut, during which he scored just 18 and 1 as Australia were thrashed by England. The English won the series 4-1.
Bradman, who was dropped after the match, donated the bat to a competition run by a Sydney newspaper to help raise funds for a children's hospital.
An Australian bidder acquired the bat, which was signed by the country's greatest cricketer and the entire 1928-29 Test team and their English rivals.
"This is a record price for a cricket bat and there were several bidders, all of them within Australia, hoping to win the auction," a spokeswoman for Leski Auctions told national news agency AAP.
Bradman, who died in 2001 aged 92, is Australia's greatest sporting legend and maintains an unbeaten Test batting average of 99.94 some 60 years after his last match.
The bat sold at auction was used on Bradman's Test debut, during which he scored just 18 and 1 as Australia were thrashed by England. The English won the series 4-1.
Bradman, who was dropped after the match, donated the bat to a competition run by a Sydney newspaper to help raise funds for a children's hospital.
India to go by govt advice
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday said they will follow the government's advice though it had agreed in principle to the itinerary prepared for India's tour of Pakistan early next year by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
"We have finalised our Pakistan tour programme with the PCB and in fact have done so till the end of April, which includes our tour of New Zealand. But as the time comes nearer to touring (Pakistan) we will have to wait for the advice (on the itinerary) from our government," BCCI Secretary Niranjan Shah told PTI here.
As per the itinerary finalised and released by the PCB yesterday, Rawalpindi is set to host a Test and a one-dayer during the January-February 2009 tour.
The PCB had also said it might have to review the itinerary in the wake of the deadly blasts in neighbouring Islamabad while declaring the tour programme.
As per the programme, the January 4 to February 19 tour next year would feature three Tests, five one-dayers, a Twenty20 game and a three-day practice match at Hyderabad (Sind), which kicks off the visit.
"We have finalised our Pakistan tour programme with the PCB and in fact have done so till the end of April, which includes our tour of New Zealand. But as the time comes nearer to touring (Pakistan) we will have to wait for the advice (on the itinerary) from our government," BCCI Secretary Niranjan Shah told PTI here.
As per the itinerary finalised and released by the PCB yesterday, Rawalpindi is set to host a Test and a one-dayer during the January-February 2009 tour.
The PCB had also said it might have to review the itinerary in the wake of the deadly blasts in neighbouring Islamabad while declaring the tour programme.
As per the programme, the January 4 to February 19 tour next year would feature three Tests, five one-dayers, a Twenty20 game and a three-day practice match at Hyderabad (Sind), which kicks off the visit.
Martin is not coming here
New Zealand fast bowler Chris Martin has withdrawn from the one-day series against Bangladesh next month because of a hamstring strain.
Team manager Lindsay Crocker said Wednesday that Martin would be replaced by Michael Mason for the early part of the tour to Bangladesh.
Martin, who has been playing for English side Warwickshire, was expected to return to the team in time for the two-Test series against Bangladesh after receiving treatment in New Zealand.
The first of three one-day internationals will be played on October 9 in Mirpur against a Bangladesh side depleted by 13 defections to the rebel Indian Cricket League.
The first Test starts in Chittagong on October 17 with the second in Mirpur from October 25.
Team manager Lindsay Crocker said Wednesday that Martin would be replaced by Michael Mason for the early part of the tour to Bangladesh.
Martin, who has been playing for English side Warwickshire, was expected to return to the team in time for the two-Test series against Bangladesh after receiving treatment in New Zealand.
The first of three one-day internationals will be played on October 9 in Mirpur against a Bangladesh side depleted by 13 defections to the rebel Indian Cricket League.
The first Test starts in Chittagong on October 17 with the second in Mirpur from October 25.
Hussey warns India
Reliable batsman Michael Hussey said Wednesday the inexperienced Australian side were capable of rising to the occasion in the demanding Test series soon to start in India.
"A Test series on Indian soil is considered tough. It's the toughest series, but it gives you immense satisfaction if you are able to win it," Hussey told reporters ahead of the four-match series starting in Bangalore on October 9.
Australia clinched their previous Test series in India in 2004, their first success in 35 years.
Only four members of the Australian squad -- skipper Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden, Michael Clarke and Simon Katich -- have played a Test in India, but Hussey warned the hosts not to underestimate the tourists.
"We definitely take a lot of things out of 2004, but the personnel are so different that we are a new team really and trying to create our own history," said the middle-order batsman, 33.
"The big strength we have is the Indians might think we are inexperienced and perhaps in Test cricket in this country we are, but the guys that have come in have played a lot of first-class cricket.
"It would be a bit of a mistake to underestimate the newer, less experienced guys. I think they are hardened cricketers and it's a case of how quickly we can adapt to the conditions."
Hussey, who has scored 2,325 runs in 25 Tests, said the experience of playing Twenty20 matches in India early this year would help him.
"I may not have played a Test here, but have played other forms of the game. I think patience will be the key. The experience will come in handy as we played on different wickets," he said.
Hussey said his team was not focusing on Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh alone as the hosts had an impressive bowling attack.
Harbhajan troubled Australia the most in previous home series, having grabbed 55 wickets in seven Tests.
"Not only Harbhajan, but (leg-spinner) Anil Kumble and other Indian bowlers are also good. They have a balanced attack," said Hussey.
"You have to have a clear gameplan on how to play spin. Hayden, Ponting or Clarke have their own gameplan. So will I, but you have to be clear how you are going to tackle it."
Australia arrived on Monday, a week ahead of schedule following the postponement of the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, and will train in Jaipur for a week before the official part of the tour starts.
They play a four-day practice game in Hyderabad from October 2 before the Test series. The last three Tests will be held in Mohali, New Delhi and Nagpur.
"A Test series on Indian soil is considered tough. It's the toughest series, but it gives you immense satisfaction if you are able to win it," Hussey told reporters ahead of the four-match series starting in Bangalore on October 9.
Australia clinched their previous Test series in India in 2004, their first success in 35 years.
Only four members of the Australian squad -- skipper Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden, Michael Clarke and Simon Katich -- have played a Test in India, but Hussey warned the hosts not to underestimate the tourists.
"We definitely take a lot of things out of 2004, but the personnel are so different that we are a new team really and trying to create our own history," said the middle-order batsman, 33.
"The big strength we have is the Indians might think we are inexperienced and perhaps in Test cricket in this country we are, but the guys that have come in have played a lot of first-class cricket.
"It would be a bit of a mistake to underestimate the newer, less experienced guys. I think they are hardened cricketers and it's a case of how quickly we can adapt to the conditions."
Hussey, who has scored 2,325 runs in 25 Tests, said the experience of playing Twenty20 matches in India early this year would help him.
"I may not have played a Test here, but have played other forms of the game. I think patience will be the key. The experience will come in handy as we played on different wickets," he said.
Hussey said his team was not focusing on Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh alone as the hosts had an impressive bowling attack.
Harbhajan troubled Australia the most in previous home series, having grabbed 55 wickets in seven Tests.
"Not only Harbhajan, but (leg-spinner) Anil Kumble and other Indian bowlers are also good. They have a balanced attack," said Hussey.
"You have to have a clear gameplan on how to play spin. Hayden, Ponting or Clarke have their own gameplan. So will I, but you have to be clear how you are going to tackle it."
Australia arrived on Monday, a week ahead of schedule following the postponement of the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, and will train in Jaipur for a week before the official part of the tour starts.
They play a four-day practice game in Hyderabad from October 2 before the Test series. The last three Tests will be held in Mohali, New Delhi and Nagpur.
NO PROBLEM WITH CHAPPELL
Former India coach Greg Chappell's new role as assistant coach of the Australian cricket team is causing quite a stir ahead of the four-Test series but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) says it has no issues with the former Aussie captain.
"We have no issues with his new role. He's no longer with us," said BCCI secretary Niranjan Shah, who is to step down after completing his term at the two-day AGM here on September 27-28.
Chappell has recently taken over as the chief of Cricket Australia's Centre of Excellence and has come to India to prepare Ricky Ponting and his men for the rigours of the four-Test series against the hosts.
Shah said Chappell's tenure as India coach turned stormy because he chose to communicate with the players not directly but through the media.
"The media interest in cricket in India is so much that Chappell started falling for that. Rather than talking to the players directly he was seen communicating to the players through the media," the outgoing BCCI office-bearer told PTI.
"We have no issues with his new role. He's no longer with us," said BCCI secretary Niranjan Shah, who is to step down after completing his term at the two-day AGM here on September 27-28.
Chappell has recently taken over as the chief of Cricket Australia's Centre of Excellence and has come to India to prepare Ricky Ponting and his men for the rigours of the four-Test series against the hosts.
Shah said Chappell's tenure as India coach turned stormy because he chose to communicate with the players not directly but through the media.
"The media interest in cricket in India is so much that Chappell started falling for that. Rather than talking to the players directly he was seen communicating to the players through the media," the outgoing BCCI office-bearer told PTI.
Indo-Aussie series snippets
Anil Kumble, India's Test captain, has said the batsmen must step up if India are to regain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy next month. India go into the four-Test series against Australia on the back of two poor series -- against South Africa and Sri Lanka -- but Kumble is confident that each of his players will lift his game for the high-profile contests.
"Whenever we've won at home it's the batsmen who have scored huge runs and that's the key," Kumble said on the eve of the Irani Trophy game between Delhi and Rest of India in Vadodara.
India's top six batsmen scored only three centuries among them in six Tests against South Africa and Sri Lanka. However Kumble said the series in Sri Lanka, which India lost 2-1, was a "one-off".
Australia won 2-1 when they last toured India in 2004-05 but only four members from their current squad have played Tests in the country before. "In the past every player has stepped up his game whenever we've played Australia," Kumble said. "We came close to winning in Australia and even in 2004 we lost out in Chennai on the last day due to rain.
"We have a great opportunity. They certainly lack experience in playing in India. Having said that, they are highly competitive team and are still No. 1. But we look at it as an opportunity to win the series. With the experience and skills that we have, we look to back that up with good performances to get the results."
Kumble hoped that Sachin Tendulkar, who averages 69.94 against Australia, would be fit for the series. "He is definitely a big player and he has done exceptionally well against Australia."
"Whenever we've won at home it's the batsmen who have scored huge runs and that's the key," Kumble said on the eve of the Irani Trophy game between Delhi and Rest of India in Vadodara.
India's top six batsmen scored only three centuries among them in six Tests against South Africa and Sri Lanka. However Kumble said the series in Sri Lanka, which India lost 2-1, was a "one-off".
Australia won 2-1 when they last toured India in 2004-05 but only four members from their current squad have played Tests in the country before. "In the past every player has stepped up his game whenever we've played Australia," Kumble said. "We came close to winning in Australia and even in 2004 we lost out in Chennai on the last day due to rain.
"We have a great opportunity. They certainly lack experience in playing in India. Having said that, they are highly competitive team and are still No. 1. But we look at it as an opportunity to win the series. With the experience and skills that we have, we look to back that up with good performances to get the results."
Kumble hoped that Sachin Tendulkar, who averages 69.94 against Australia, would be fit for the series. "He is definitely a big player and he has done exceptionally well against Australia."
SLC clears the ICL air
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has on Wednesday revised its stance on Indian Cricket League (ICL) cricketers playing domestic cricket after a meeting with Sports Minister Gamini Lokuge.
The board clarified that the approval, given by the interim committee, to ICL players last week to play domestic matches was limited to the "upcoming Premier League Cricket Tournament 2008 only".
"All ICL contracted cricketers will not be permitted to represent teams at district, provincial and international level," SLC said in a statement.
On September 19, in an unexpected move, the SLC allowed five cricketers and an umpire, who had signed up for the unauthorised ICL in 2007, to take part in domestic cricket. Marvan Atapattu, the former Sri Lanka captain, Russel Arnold, Upul Chandana, Avishka Gunawardene, Saman Jayantha and umpire Ranmore Martinesz were the players who benefited from the decision.
However, at the meeting, Lokuge stressed the importance of working together with the Indian board, which has had a close relationship with the SLC for a long time. The BCCI had expressed its disappointment at the news of lifitng of the ban on the ICL players.
Lokuge also requested SLC's interim committee to negotiate with the England board so that Sri Lanka's IPL players can take part in the Twenty20 league next year. The tour, as of now, clashes with the IPL and Lokuge asked the committee to work out alternative dates and proceed with the tour. He is also yet to ratify Sri Lanka's Twenty20 squad for the Canada Cup Four Nation 20/20 in Ontario from October 10 to 13.
The board clarified that the approval, given by the interim committee, to ICL players last week to play domestic matches was limited to the "upcoming Premier League Cricket Tournament 2008 only".
"All ICL contracted cricketers will not be permitted to represent teams at district, provincial and international level," SLC said in a statement.
On September 19, in an unexpected move, the SLC allowed five cricketers and an umpire, who had signed up for the unauthorised ICL in 2007, to take part in domestic cricket. Marvan Atapattu, the former Sri Lanka captain, Russel Arnold, Upul Chandana, Avishka Gunawardene, Saman Jayantha and umpire Ranmore Martinesz were the players who benefited from the decision.
However, at the meeting, Lokuge stressed the importance of working together with the Indian board, which has had a close relationship with the SLC for a long time. The BCCI had expressed its disappointment at the news of lifitng of the ban on the ICL players.
Lokuge also requested SLC's interim committee to negotiate with the England board so that Sri Lanka's IPL players can take part in the Twenty20 league next year. The tour, as of now, clashes with the IPL and Lokuge asked the committee to work out alternative dates and proceed with the tour. He is also yet to ratify Sri Lanka's Twenty20 squad for the Canada Cup Four Nation 20/20 in Ontario from October 10 to 13.
DSC to be Pak home
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has signed a three-year contract worth 9 million dollars with Dubai Sports City (DSC), which will serve as the home venue for Pakistan's future cricketing commitments after touring teams raised security concerns over travelling to Pakistan.
"Under the recently-signed contract, the Pakistan team will play different events at the offshore venue for three years after the completion of Dubai Cricket Stadium next year," said Shafqat Nagmi, the PCB's chief operating officer, while announcing the deal at a news conference.
Naghmi said the stadium is likely to be completed in February 2009 and will host a tri-series involving Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in April. For the next two years, the team will be participating in Twenty20 events. According to a senior PCB official, Pakistan will play four Twenty20 matches in that period with the board expected to rake in 3 million dollars per match for the three-year assignment.
The PCB has already suffered heavy financial losses this year with the postponement of the Champions Trophy and Australia's refusal to tour Pakistan for a Test series earlier in March-April this year.
Concerns also loomed over the lack of international cricket being played, with only a quadrangular tournament in Toronto involving hosts Canada, Bangladesh and the West Indies scheduled for October, ahead of the home series against India in January 2009.
"It is a lucrative contract which will help in overcoming the loss after postponement of Champions Trophy," said Naghmi. "Through this deal we will be generating enough funds besides having a definite programme of our team's participation in international cricket".
He signed the contract subject to the approval of the incoming chairman of the PCB, the position which remains vacant following the resignation of Nasim Ashraf.
"Under the recently-signed contract, the Pakistan team will play different events at the offshore venue for three years after the completion of Dubai Cricket Stadium next year," said Shafqat Nagmi, the PCB's chief operating officer, while announcing the deal at a news conference.
Naghmi said the stadium is likely to be completed in February 2009 and will host a tri-series involving Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in April. For the next two years, the team will be participating in Twenty20 events. According to a senior PCB official, Pakistan will play four Twenty20 matches in that period with the board expected to rake in 3 million dollars per match for the three-year assignment.
The PCB has already suffered heavy financial losses this year with the postponement of the Champions Trophy and Australia's refusal to tour Pakistan for a Test series earlier in March-April this year.
Concerns also loomed over the lack of international cricket being played, with only a quadrangular tournament in Toronto involving hosts Canada, Bangladesh and the West Indies scheduled for October, ahead of the home series against India in January 2009.
"It is a lucrative contract which will help in overcoming the loss after postponement of Champions Trophy," said Naghmi. "Through this deal we will be generating enough funds besides having a definite programme of our team's participation in international cricket".
He signed the contract subject to the approval of the incoming chairman of the PCB, the position which remains vacant following the resignation of Nasim Ashraf.
Academy's do-or-die game today
The series deciding one-day match between GP-BCB National Cricket Academy and Sri Lanka Cricket Development XI take place at the NCC ground in Colombo today.
The three-match series locked 1-1 as the home side bounced back in the second match with a four-wicket victory on Tuesday.
In the first match the visitors pulled off exciting one-wicket victory.
The three-match series locked 1-1 as the home side bounced back in the second match with a four-wicket victory on Tuesday.
In the first match the visitors pulled off exciting one-wicket victory.
Ash gives his version
At last Mohammad Ashraful spoke to the media after Bangladesh Cricket Board's (BCB) gag order ended yesterday.
The Bangladesh captain was presented in front of journalists but it was evident that the cricket board did not want any goof-ups as they posted the media manager and the team operations manager during the informal press meet, Ashraful's first since he arrived in the country from England on Monday.
However, there would be no complaint from the board as Ashraful expressed his side of the story quite efficiently.
Ashraful confirmed speculations that talk of a player revolt was being planned during the recent Australia tour.
"Our coach [Jamie Siddons] told me that some of the players could be signing for ICL [Indian Cricket League]. When I asked the players, they all denied it straightaway," informed Ashraful after Wednesday's practice at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.
"If I had any idea that so many players were actually joining then I definitely would have told the cricket board," said the 24-year-old Ashraful.
But he confirmed that a three-year deal did come his way and that it was worth around Tk 15 crore.
"The first ICL offer came to me through an agent and it was a three-year deal. I informed our chief selector [Rafiqul Alam], [Gazi Ashraf Hossain] Lipu bhai and my coach [Wahidul Gani] about it," confided Ashraful.
"When I asked Lipu bhai what will happen if I take up the contract, he told me that I wouldn't be able to play for Bangladesh.
"He also told me that if I play well, we might have a chance to play in the Indian Premier League [IPL] next year. After hearing all these from him, I immediately rejected the offer and don't know what happened next," said Ashraful.
So the million-dollar question is: Were you the mastermind behind all these?
"That is totally wrong. I have never met that agent and only talked to him over the phone. He is well known to many Bangladeshi players as he has arranged sponsors for a number of local players and helped them in getting club contracts in the UK. I believe he contacted them directly.
"Some people are calling me the mastermind. They should remember that the biggest offer came to me. Fifteen crore taka over a three-year period is not a matter of joke. But my involvement with the ICL ended the moment I refused that offer," said Ashraful.
When he was pressed further in this regard, he defended himself and challenged the player in question, Dhiman Ghosh, who alleged the skipper of encouraging him (Dhiman) to sign in ICL as he's not the first-choice wicketkeeper.
"I would have preferred if he [Dhiman] had said that in front of me," demanded Ashraful.
"Even if some people held any grudges against me, they never mentioned it. Professional players should understand that if you are out of the side that means you are not performing. There is no way in the world that you will be left out when you have performance behind you.
"I read somewhere that [Shahriar] Nafees and Aftab [Ahmed] had remarked that I wanted them out of the way as they could have been future captains; that I stopped their path. If they knew they were captaincy material then why an earth would they want to leave?" said the ace batsman.
Ashraful also reiterated that he would not be going to the rebel Indian league even if he were to be left out of the national team.
"Even if I lose the captaincy or get dropped, I would not consider ICL because I want to play Tests and ODIs. Nothing is more important to me than representing the country.
"If I'm dropped for bad form, I know that I can bounce back even if it takes two years because I have age on my side," opined Ashraful.
He added that he only heard of the whole ICL fiasco when he was in England, where he went on a vacation (after returning from Australia) and did a couple of charity fund-raisers for Sidr victims.
He viewed that it is the ICL-bound players who were the bigger losers, as they had to give up their chance to play for Bangladesh.
"The players joining the ICL have lost more because they can't play international or first-class cricket and there will be others to fill in the gap.
"We lost fourteen out of roughly 160 first-class players. It is true that we will miss their experience to a certain extent because they had played top level cricket for a number of years but the newer guys will gain experience the same way," added Ashraful.
The Bangladesh captain was presented in front of journalists but it was evident that the cricket board did not want any goof-ups as they posted the media manager and the team operations manager during the informal press meet, Ashraful's first since he arrived in the country from England on Monday.
However, there would be no complaint from the board as Ashraful expressed his side of the story quite efficiently.
Ashraful confirmed speculations that talk of a player revolt was being planned during the recent Australia tour.
"Our coach [Jamie Siddons] told me that some of the players could be signing for ICL [Indian Cricket League]. When I asked the players, they all denied it straightaway," informed Ashraful after Wednesday's practice at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.
"If I had any idea that so many players were actually joining then I definitely would have told the cricket board," said the 24-year-old Ashraful.
But he confirmed that a three-year deal did come his way and that it was worth around Tk 15 crore.
"The first ICL offer came to me through an agent and it was a three-year deal. I informed our chief selector [Rafiqul Alam], [Gazi Ashraf Hossain] Lipu bhai and my coach [Wahidul Gani] about it," confided Ashraful.
"When I asked Lipu bhai what will happen if I take up the contract, he told me that I wouldn't be able to play for Bangladesh.
"He also told me that if I play well, we might have a chance to play in the Indian Premier League [IPL] next year. After hearing all these from him, I immediately rejected the offer and don't know what happened next," said Ashraful.
So the million-dollar question is: Were you the mastermind behind all these?
"That is totally wrong. I have never met that agent and only talked to him over the phone. He is well known to many Bangladeshi players as he has arranged sponsors for a number of local players and helped them in getting club contracts in the UK. I believe he contacted them directly.
"Some people are calling me the mastermind. They should remember that the biggest offer came to me. Fifteen crore taka over a three-year period is not a matter of joke. But my involvement with the ICL ended the moment I refused that offer," said Ashraful.
When he was pressed further in this regard, he defended himself and challenged the player in question, Dhiman Ghosh, who alleged the skipper of encouraging him (Dhiman) to sign in ICL as he's not the first-choice wicketkeeper.
"I would have preferred if he [Dhiman] had said that in front of me," demanded Ashraful.
"Even if some people held any grudges against me, they never mentioned it. Professional players should understand that if you are out of the side that means you are not performing. There is no way in the world that you will be left out when you have performance behind you.
"I read somewhere that [Shahriar] Nafees and Aftab [Ahmed] had remarked that I wanted them out of the way as they could have been future captains; that I stopped their path. If they knew they were captaincy material then why an earth would they want to leave?" said the ace batsman.
Ashraful also reiterated that he would not be going to the rebel Indian league even if he were to be left out of the national team.
"Even if I lose the captaincy or get dropped, I would not consider ICL because I want to play Tests and ODIs. Nothing is more important to me than representing the country.
"If I'm dropped for bad form, I know that I can bounce back even if it takes two years because I have age on my side," opined Ashraful.
He added that he only heard of the whole ICL fiasco when he was in England, where he went on a vacation (after returning from Australia) and did a couple of charity fund-raisers for Sidr victims.
He viewed that it is the ICL-bound players who were the bigger losers, as they had to give up their chance to play for Bangladesh.
"The players joining the ICL have lost more because they can't play international or first-class cricket and there will be others to fill in the gap.
"We lost fourteen out of roughly 160 first-class players. It is true that we will miss their experience to a certain extent because they had played top level cricket for a number of years but the newer guys will gain experience the same way," added Ashraful.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Safina tries to follow in brother's footsteps
Russia's Dinara Safina says she is striving to follow in the footsteps of her Grand Slam champion brother Marat, as she climbs up the rankings toward the top spot he once held on the men's tennis tour.
The 22-year-old Safina, who reached the French Open final and the US Open semifinals this year, powered past her compatriot Svetlana Kuznetsova 6-1, 6-3 to win the Pan Pacific Open here Sunday for her fourth WTA title of the season.
The victory lifted Safina to a career-high ranking of third in the world and marked her ninth tournament win since her first victory in 2002 at Sopot as a 16-year-old qualifier.
"I'm happy. I just want to continue and be happy, healthy and I'll push myself as hard as I can to get as far as I can," she told reporters after the Pan Pacific final.
"I just hope that this win here in Tokyo makes me more confident and I can just keep on going."
Her brother, Marat Safin, won the US Open in 2000 and reached the top of the ATP rankings in November that year. The 28-year-old also won the Australian Open in 2005.
Safina's victory was her 41st in 46 matches, according to the WTA website, and her sixth against Kuznetsova, the 2004 US Open champion, in 10 encounters.
"I'm just feeling great. I've been playing here this whole week the best tennis I've ever played," she said.
"It's obviously nice to hold a trophy in your hands. I never had this kind of trophy, so it makes it special."
Safina attributed her successes this season to her full trust in coach Zeljko Krajan.
"That's the only way, the only key to success. You have to trust somebody, because it's very difficult to make it to the top," said Safina.
"We have a very good relationship. We are very close friends."
She also credited her fine performance in Tokyo to the loss of about six kilos (13 pounds).
"I was a little bit heavier before and it was difficult to compete with the top 10 players, because you have to be one step faster than they are and the direction has to be faster.
"For me, to make that step to get faster, I had to lose some weight. It's also kind of part of the preparation."
Safina qualified for the season-ending elite championships in November in Doha, joining Serbian duo Jelena Jankovic and Ana Ivanovic, US star Serena Williams and Russia's Elena Dementieva.
"I really was struggling so much for four years," she said. "I think this year is the time that finally I know what I was looking for."
The 22-year-old Safina, who reached the French Open final and the US Open semifinals this year, powered past her compatriot Svetlana Kuznetsova 6-1, 6-3 to win the Pan Pacific Open here Sunday for her fourth WTA title of the season.
The victory lifted Safina to a career-high ranking of third in the world and marked her ninth tournament win since her first victory in 2002 at Sopot as a 16-year-old qualifier.
"I'm happy. I just want to continue and be happy, healthy and I'll push myself as hard as I can to get as far as I can," she told reporters after the Pan Pacific final.
"I just hope that this win here in Tokyo makes me more confident and I can just keep on going."
Her brother, Marat Safin, won the US Open in 2000 and reached the top of the ATP rankings in November that year. The 28-year-old also won the Australian Open in 2005.
Safina's victory was her 41st in 46 matches, according to the WTA website, and her sixth against Kuznetsova, the 2004 US Open champion, in 10 encounters.
"I'm just feeling great. I've been playing here this whole week the best tennis I've ever played," she said.
"It's obviously nice to hold a trophy in your hands. I never had this kind of trophy, so it makes it special."
Safina attributed her successes this season to her full trust in coach Zeljko Krajan.
"That's the only way, the only key to success. You have to trust somebody, because it's very difficult to make it to the top," said Safina.
"We have a very good relationship. We are very close friends."
She also credited her fine performance in Tokyo to the loss of about six kilos (13 pounds).
"I was a little bit heavier before and it was difficult to compete with the top 10 players, because you have to be one step faster than they are and the direction has to be faster.
"For me, to make that step to get faster, I had to lose some weight. It's also kind of part of the preparation."
Safina qualified for the season-ending elite championships in November in Doha, joining Serbian duo Jelena Jankovic and Ana Ivanovic, US star Serena Williams and Russia's Elena Dementieva.
"I really was struggling so much for four years," she said. "I think this year is the time that finally I know what I was looking for."
Kolpak loophole set to be closed
The end is nigh for the legion of Kolpak players who have used European Union employment legislation to bypass quotas on overseas players in English cricket, according to a report in Monday's Daily Telegraph.
The growth of Kolpaks, who mainly come from South Africa, has caused increasing concern in England. Until recently, it has been believed that there was nothing the authorities could do to restrict the numbers, but this view has now changed.
The newspaper says that the Central Council for Physical Recreation, a lobby group for sport in Britain, discovered that the agreement being used as the basis for the Kolpak ruling -- the Cotonou Treaty, signed in 2000 -- was in fact meant to allow free trade and not freedom of labour.
While some of the counties are believed to be prepared to challenge the ECB's change of heart, it seems likely that 2009 will be the last year where Kolpak players proliferate. The newspaper predicts that there could be a 60 per cent fall-off in the numbers of foreign players in county cricket.
Overseas cricketers will still be present, subject to existing ECB limits, but they will have far greater restrictions placed on them and they will have to prove that they are of a high-enough standard to be able to get a work permit. Generally, this will involve them having played a certain quantity of international cricket in the previous two years.
What the review of the Kolpak legislation won't remove are the players who qualify because they have access to passports from EU countries because of parents and grandparents.
The article adds that the ECB is also set to introduce increased financial incentives for counties that field Under-25 England-qualified players from 2010.
The growth of Kolpaks, who mainly come from South Africa, has caused increasing concern in England. Until recently, it has been believed that there was nothing the authorities could do to restrict the numbers, but this view has now changed.
The newspaper says that the Central Council for Physical Recreation, a lobby group for sport in Britain, discovered that the agreement being used as the basis for the Kolpak ruling -- the Cotonou Treaty, signed in 2000 -- was in fact meant to allow free trade and not freedom of labour.
While some of the counties are believed to be prepared to challenge the ECB's change of heart, it seems likely that 2009 will be the last year where Kolpak players proliferate. The newspaper predicts that there could be a 60 per cent fall-off in the numbers of foreign players in county cricket.
Overseas cricketers will still be present, subject to existing ECB limits, but they will have far greater restrictions placed on them and they will have to prove that they are of a high-enough standard to be able to get a work permit. Generally, this will involve them having played a certain quantity of international cricket in the previous two years.
What the review of the Kolpak legislation won't remove are the players who qualify because they have access to passports from EU countries because of parents and grandparents.
The article adds that the ECB is also set to introduce increased financial incentives for counties that field Under-25 England-qualified players from 2010.
Dwi Kuncoro lifts Japan Open
Indonesian badminton ace Sony Dwi Kuncoro upset world number-one Lee Chong Wei 21-17, 21-11 to win the Japan Open here Sunday, avenging his quarterfinal defeat to the Malaysian at the Beijing Olympics.
"I feel happy to show that I am no less capable than Chong Wei," Dwi Kuncoro said after winning in 41 minutes. He lost no games on his way to winning his second Super Series title of the year following the Indonesian Open in June.
"It hasn't been easy since I lost in Beijing. I was really devastated but came back with three weeks of training, hoping to beat Chong Wei again," said 24-year-old Dwi Kuncoro, who is ranked sixth in the world.
"Now I can continue with badminton in a positive way," said the Athens Olympics bronze medallist.
Lee, the defending champion and top seed, said he had been exhausted after weeks of silver-medal celebration and training after losing to China's world champion Lin Dan in the Beijing final.
"I feel happy to show that I am no less capable than Chong Wei," Dwi Kuncoro said after winning in 41 minutes. He lost no games on his way to winning his second Super Series title of the year following the Indonesian Open in June.
"It hasn't been easy since I lost in Beijing. I was really devastated but came back with three weeks of training, hoping to beat Chong Wei again," said 24-year-old Dwi Kuncoro, who is ranked sixth in the world.
"Now I can continue with badminton in a positive way," said the Athens Olympics bronze medallist.
Lee, the defending champion and top seed, said he had been exhausted after weeks of silver-medal celebration and training after losing to China's world champion Lin Dan in the Beijing final.
Mauresmo sent packing
Former world number one Amelie Mauresmo was on Monday dumped out of the China Open, where the battle will continue for the top ranking in the women's game.
Two-time Grand Slam winner Mauresmo, who has plummeted to 25 in the world after an injury-ravaged 2007, took the first set against Slovakia's Dominika Cibulkova but crashed to a 6-3, 4-6, 3-6 defeat.
"It's definitely disappointing, especially since I thought I was playing some pretty good tennis out there tonight," said Mauresmo, 29.
"I will have to digest this one and make sure I go back on the right track for the next few tournaments."
The former Wimbledon and Australian Open champion, who hit 13 double faults, said continuing injury problems had limited her practice time this year, although she said she had been injury-free for the past two months.
Cibulkova, ranked five places above the French player, wrapped up victory in two hours 30 minutes in blustery conditions in front of a sparse crowd.
The 19-year-old raised her game in a second set in which both players had trouble holding serve, winning the final three games from 4-3 down to level the match.
In the decider, an increasingly nervy Mauresmo, whose performance was littered with errors, broke in the first game but then lost her serve to love as Cibulkova levelled the scores at 3-3.
The Slovakian, sensing her chance, broke Mauresmo again to lead 5-3 before serving out for the set.
Earlier, Daniela Hantuchova, the seventh seed here, beat Argentina's Gisela Dulko 6-3, 6-1.
The win for the Slovakian, now ranked 13 in the world, followed victory for Spain's Anabel Medina Garrigues over Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark, also in straight sets.
Hantuchova was pleased with her performance, saying: "I think I did the right thing. I got a lot of break points."
Serbians Jelena Jankovic and Ana Ivanovic are seeded one and two at the 600,000-dollar China Open.
New world number three Dinara Safina, who captured the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo on Sunday, withdrew due to injury.
The women's top ranking has been in flux since Justine Henin's surprise retirement in May, passing between Maria Sharapova, Ivanovic, Jankovic and current number one Serena Williams.
Meanwhile, on the men's side of the draw in Beijing, defending champion and Olympic silver medalist Fernando Gonzalez faces a tough battle to retain his title, with top seed David Ferrer and former world number one Andy Roddick in the hunt.
Other first round wins on Monday included Germany's Bjorn Phau and Taiwan's Lu Yen-Hsun.
Two-time Grand Slam winner Mauresmo, who has plummeted to 25 in the world after an injury-ravaged 2007, took the first set against Slovakia's Dominika Cibulkova but crashed to a 6-3, 4-6, 3-6 defeat.
"It's definitely disappointing, especially since I thought I was playing some pretty good tennis out there tonight," said Mauresmo, 29.
"I will have to digest this one and make sure I go back on the right track for the next few tournaments."
The former Wimbledon and Australian Open champion, who hit 13 double faults, said continuing injury problems had limited her practice time this year, although she said she had been injury-free for the past two months.
Cibulkova, ranked five places above the French player, wrapped up victory in two hours 30 minutes in blustery conditions in front of a sparse crowd.
The 19-year-old raised her game in a second set in which both players had trouble holding serve, winning the final three games from 4-3 down to level the match.
In the decider, an increasingly nervy Mauresmo, whose performance was littered with errors, broke in the first game but then lost her serve to love as Cibulkova levelled the scores at 3-3.
The Slovakian, sensing her chance, broke Mauresmo again to lead 5-3 before serving out for the set.
Earlier, Daniela Hantuchova, the seventh seed here, beat Argentina's Gisela Dulko 6-3, 6-1.
The win for the Slovakian, now ranked 13 in the world, followed victory for Spain's Anabel Medina Garrigues over Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark, also in straight sets.
Hantuchova was pleased with her performance, saying: "I think I did the right thing. I got a lot of break points."
Serbians Jelena Jankovic and Ana Ivanovic are seeded one and two at the 600,000-dollar China Open.
New world number three Dinara Safina, who captured the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo on Sunday, withdrew due to injury.
The women's top ranking has been in flux since Justine Henin's surprise retirement in May, passing between Maria Sharapova, Ivanovic, Jankovic and current number one Serena Williams.
Meanwhile, on the men's side of the draw in Beijing, defending champion and Olympic silver medalist Fernando Gonzalez faces a tough battle to retain his title, with top seed David Ferrer and former world number one Andy Roddick in the hunt.
Other first round wins on Monday included Germany's Bjorn Phau and Taiwan's Lu Yen-Hsun.
Gomez strikes for Stuttgart
Germany striker Mario Gomez was both goal scorer and provider as VfB Stuttgart came from behind to beat Karlsruhe 3-1 at home on Sunday to go third in the Bundesliga as Schalke 04 finish the weekend top of the table.
The shock of the weekend was defending champions Bayern Munich's 5-2 defeat at home to Werder Bremen on Saturday - their first league defeat of the season - which saw the German giants drop from second to eighth.
Gomez led Stuttgart's recovery after they fell behind when Karlsruhe striker Sebastian Freis had a free header in the penalty area on eight minutes.
Gomez, who is rediscovering his form after a poor Euro 2008, set up the equaliser for midfielder Sami Khedira on 22 minutes and then put his side ahead on 68 minutes to claim his third goal in five games.
Romania striker Ciprian Marica scored Stuttgart's third on 87 minutes to seal the win.
"In the first half, we didn't play so well, but we managed to take our chances when they came," said Stuttgart coach Armin Veh.
"We were much better after the break, won the individual battles and we deserved the victory."
Newly-promoted Hoffenheim are up to second after they hammered Dortmund 4-1 at home on Sunday.
"The team played for virtually the whole game with total concentration and knocked the breath out of the opposition," said coach Ralf Rangnick.
"The boys are smart enough to know we must always play like this if we are to remain successful, so there is no danger of over confidence."
Martin Jol's Hamburg missed their chance to stay top of the Bundesliga when they were blitzed 3-0 at VfL Wolfsburg and the defeat leaves them fourth.
Hamburg began the weekend in first place, but lost top spot after Schalke beat Eintracht Frankfurt 1-0 on Saturday.
Goals by midfielder Ashkan Dejagah, defender Alexander Madlung and Brazilian Grafite left Hamburg on the ropes after just 28 minutes and they never recovered.
"It's not yet Christmas, but we virtually gave the goals away to Wolfsburg as presents," said Jol.
"In the second half, we tried everything. That was perhaps the most positive part of the game."
Bayern Munich coach Jurgen Klinsmann could only rue his side's 'black' Saturday as Werder Bremen routed the defending champions in Munich.
Bremen's teenage midfielder Mesut Oezil, 19, provided the final passes for the first two goals and Sweden striker Markus Rosenberg scored goals either side of half-time as Bremen ran riot to leave Bayern on the ropes at 5-0 down.
Germany midfielder Tim Borowski scored two late goals, but they were no more than consolation.
"That was a black day. Bremen were better, more spirited and more aggressive than us," said Klinsmann.
"From this we can only learn, we can't bury our heads in the sand, we have to improve."
Schalke 04 grabbed a 1-0 win over ten-man Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday after Brazilian defender Chris was sent off on 34 minutes for assaulting Germany defender Heiko Westermann.
And on 41 minutes Frankfurt's misery was complete when Patrick Ochs tackled Schalke striker Jefferson Farfan in the area only to slide the ball under his own goalkeeper.
The shock of the weekend was defending champions Bayern Munich's 5-2 defeat at home to Werder Bremen on Saturday - their first league defeat of the season - which saw the German giants drop from second to eighth.
Gomez led Stuttgart's recovery after they fell behind when Karlsruhe striker Sebastian Freis had a free header in the penalty area on eight minutes.
Gomez, who is rediscovering his form after a poor Euro 2008, set up the equaliser for midfielder Sami Khedira on 22 minutes and then put his side ahead on 68 minutes to claim his third goal in five games.
Romania striker Ciprian Marica scored Stuttgart's third on 87 minutes to seal the win.
"In the first half, we didn't play so well, but we managed to take our chances when they came," said Stuttgart coach Armin Veh.
"We were much better after the break, won the individual battles and we deserved the victory."
Newly-promoted Hoffenheim are up to second after they hammered Dortmund 4-1 at home on Sunday.
"The team played for virtually the whole game with total concentration and knocked the breath out of the opposition," said coach Ralf Rangnick.
"The boys are smart enough to know we must always play like this if we are to remain successful, so there is no danger of over confidence."
Martin Jol's Hamburg missed their chance to stay top of the Bundesliga when they were blitzed 3-0 at VfL Wolfsburg and the defeat leaves them fourth.
Hamburg began the weekend in first place, but lost top spot after Schalke beat Eintracht Frankfurt 1-0 on Saturday.
Goals by midfielder Ashkan Dejagah, defender Alexander Madlung and Brazilian Grafite left Hamburg on the ropes after just 28 minutes and they never recovered.
"It's not yet Christmas, but we virtually gave the goals away to Wolfsburg as presents," said Jol.
"In the second half, we tried everything. That was perhaps the most positive part of the game."
Bayern Munich coach Jurgen Klinsmann could only rue his side's 'black' Saturday as Werder Bremen routed the defending champions in Munich.
Bremen's teenage midfielder Mesut Oezil, 19, provided the final passes for the first two goals and Sweden striker Markus Rosenberg scored goals either side of half-time as Bremen ran riot to leave Bayern on the ropes at 5-0 down.
Germany midfielder Tim Borowski scored two late goals, but they were no more than consolation.
"That was a black day. Bremen were better, more spirited and more aggressive than us," said Klinsmann.
"From this we can only learn, we can't bury our heads in the sand, we have to improve."
Schalke 04 grabbed a 1-0 win over ten-man Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday after Brazilian defender Chris was sent off on 34 minutes for assaulting Germany defender Heiko Westermann.
And on 41 minutes Frankfurt's misery was complete when Patrick Ochs tackled Schalke striker Jefferson Farfan in the area only to slide the ball under his own goalkeeper.
'I won't get in KP's way'
Michael Vaughan, the former England captain, believes his presence in the team will not put additional pressure on Kevin Pietersen, his successor. The two are known to share a good rapport and many believe Pietersen was instrumental in the selectors handing Vaughan a central contract despite his poor form in recent Tests.
"There would be absolutely no problem," Vaughan told the Sunday Mirror. "I would not get in KP's [Pietersen's] way, or in his hair, at all. Perhaps some people might feel it would be difficult to have the ex-captain around but I don't. And I'm sure KP wouldn't either.
"When I took over from Nasser Hussain, he was still in the team, and it was a little strange having him standing in the field watching what I was doing. But it really wasn't a problem." Hussain played 11 Tests under Vaughan, with England winning six and losing three.
Vaughan is yet to play under Pietersen, having opted out of the final Test against South Africa at The Oval in August. He had stepped down from captaincy following the loss at Edgbaston, which sealed the series for South Africa. Vaughan averaged 9.33 runs in six innings during the Tests and was not part of the England's side that won the subsequent one-day series 4-0.
He is trying to impress the selectors with his performances for Yorkshire in order to secure a berth on the tour to India this winter. Vaughan scored 115 runs in five innings since the Edgbaston Test but is likely to miss the county's final game in the Championship against Sussex which starts on Wednesday. Vaughan strained a side muscle while bowling in the draw against Somerset, and didn't take the field during the final session on Saturday due to a sore knee. Yorkshire are in danger of being relegated to Division Two.
"There would be absolutely no problem," Vaughan told the Sunday Mirror. "I would not get in KP's [Pietersen's] way, or in his hair, at all. Perhaps some people might feel it would be difficult to have the ex-captain around but I don't. And I'm sure KP wouldn't either.
"When I took over from Nasser Hussain, he was still in the team, and it was a little strange having him standing in the field watching what I was doing. But it really wasn't a problem." Hussain played 11 Tests under Vaughan, with England winning six and losing three.
Vaughan is yet to play under Pietersen, having opted out of the final Test against South Africa at The Oval in August. He had stepped down from captaincy following the loss at Edgbaston, which sealed the series for South Africa. Vaughan averaged 9.33 runs in six innings during the Tests and was not part of the England's side that won the subsequent one-day series 4-0.
He is trying to impress the selectors with his performances for Yorkshire in order to secure a berth on the tour to India this winter. Vaughan scored 115 runs in five innings since the Edgbaston Test but is likely to miss the county's final game in the Championship against Sussex which starts on Wednesday. Vaughan strained a side muscle while bowling in the draw against Somerset, and didn't take the field during the final session on Saturday due to a sore knee. Yorkshire are in danger of being relegated to Division Two.
Davis Cup Spain-Argentina final
World number one Rafael Nadal blitzed hapless Andy Roddick inside a Madrid bullring on Sunday to lead Spain into a Davis Cup final showdown against Argentina.
Spain, the champions in 2000 and 2004, saw off defending champions USA 4-1 while Argentina, who have never lifted the trophy, needed teenager Juan Martin del Potro to deliver them a gripping 3-2 win over Russia in Buenos Aires.
Nadal, who has already picked up the Wimbledon, French Open and Olympic titles this year, cruised to a 6-4, 6-0, 6-4 victory over Roddick to hand Spain an unassailable lead in the 22,000-capacity Las Ventas bullring.
"Today I play an almost perfect match and it is very, very exciting," said Nadal who played in the 2004 final win against the USA.
He was just 18 at the time, virtually unknown, but still beat Roddick, then the world number two.
Sunday saw Roddick lose for the fourth time in six meetings to the swashbuckling Spaniard and he never looked like taking victory on a clay court made sluggish by morning rain.
Feliciano Lopez beat Sam Querrey 7-6, 7-6 in the final dead rubber to hand Spain a 4-1 win.
In Buenos Aires, world number six Nikolay Davydenko pulled Russia level with Argentina at 2-2 when he defeated David Nalbandian 3-6, 6-3, 7-6, 6-0.
But 19-year-old del Potro then registered his 25th win in his last 26 matches when he brushed aside Russia's Igor Andreev 6-4, 6-2, 6-1.
Del Potro, with four titles under his belt this summer and with his only loss coming against Andy Murray in the US Open quarter-finals, secured victory with a smooth crosscourt winner.
"It's amazing," said Del Potro. "I served really well today and it's like a dream.
"If someone had told me in July that I would win four titles and reach the Davis Cup final, I would not have believed them."
Russia, who lost both of Friday's singles, had stayed alive on Saturday when Igor Kunitsyn and Dmitry Tursunov beat Nalbandian and Guillermo Canas 6-2, 6-1, 6-7, 3-6, 8-6 in a marathon doubles.
That loss also ended world number seven Nalbandian's proud record of 16 wins in 16 Davis Cup rubbers on home soil.
Crucially, Argentina, the runners-up in 1981 and 2006, will have home advantage in the November 21-23 final when Spain will be appearing in their sixth title match.
In the play-offs, where the winners are assured of places in the 2009 World Group, Austria defeated Great Britain 3-2 at Wimbledon.
World number four Andy Murray saw off bitter rival Jurgen Melzer 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-1 to pull the home side level at 2-2.
But Alex Bogdanovic, whose brittle temperament has often been his undoing, then squandered a first set lead to lose to Alexander Peya 2-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-2.
Australia, the 28-time winners, were condemned to another season in the Asia/Oceania zone after losing their play-off to Chile in Antofogasta.
Olympic silver medalist Fernando Gonzalez clinched a straight sets victory over Chris Guccione to give the Chileans a 3-1 winning lead.
Gonzalez, the world number 11, beat the 88th-ranked Guccione 7-6, 7-5, 6-3 before Carsten Ball salvaged a little pride for the Australians, who were playing without the injured Lleyton Hewitt, when he edged Paul Capdeville 6-3, 7-6 in the dead rubber.
Romania retained their place in the World Group after beating India 4-1 in Bucharest.
With a 2-1 overnight advantage, victory was assured when Romania's Victor Hanescu defeated Prakash Amritraj, 6-2, 6-3, 6-1. Victor Crivoi wrapped up the win beating Somdev Devvarman 4-6, 7-5, 6-3.
The Netherlands completed a 3-2 win over South Korea in Apeldoorn.
Thiemo De Bakker secured the vital last point beating Jun Woong-sun 6-2, 6-1, 6-3 after experienced Lee Hyung-Taik had defeated Jesse Huta Galung 1-6, 6-1, 7-6, 6-2 to pull the Koreans level at 2-2.
At Ramat Hasharon, Israel also booked their place in the 16-team World Group after taking a winning lead over Peru thanks to Dudi Sela seeing off Luis Horna 6-7, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2.
Croatia, the 2005 champions, saw off Brazil when Ivo Karlovic beat Thomaz Bellucci 7-6, 6-4, 6-7, 7-6.
Switzerland and Serbia, who had already wrapped up their ties on Saturday, completed 4-1 wins over Belgium and Slovakia respectively.
Spain, the champions in 2000 and 2004, saw off defending champions USA 4-1 while Argentina, who have never lifted the trophy, needed teenager Juan Martin del Potro to deliver them a gripping 3-2 win over Russia in Buenos Aires.
Nadal, who has already picked up the Wimbledon, French Open and Olympic titles this year, cruised to a 6-4, 6-0, 6-4 victory over Roddick to hand Spain an unassailable lead in the 22,000-capacity Las Ventas bullring.
"Today I play an almost perfect match and it is very, very exciting," said Nadal who played in the 2004 final win against the USA.
He was just 18 at the time, virtually unknown, but still beat Roddick, then the world number two.
Sunday saw Roddick lose for the fourth time in six meetings to the swashbuckling Spaniard and he never looked like taking victory on a clay court made sluggish by morning rain.
Feliciano Lopez beat Sam Querrey 7-6, 7-6 in the final dead rubber to hand Spain a 4-1 win.
In Buenos Aires, world number six Nikolay Davydenko pulled Russia level with Argentina at 2-2 when he defeated David Nalbandian 3-6, 6-3, 7-6, 6-0.
But 19-year-old del Potro then registered his 25th win in his last 26 matches when he brushed aside Russia's Igor Andreev 6-4, 6-2, 6-1.
Del Potro, with four titles under his belt this summer and with his only loss coming against Andy Murray in the US Open quarter-finals, secured victory with a smooth crosscourt winner.
"It's amazing," said Del Potro. "I served really well today and it's like a dream.
"If someone had told me in July that I would win four titles and reach the Davis Cup final, I would not have believed them."
Russia, who lost both of Friday's singles, had stayed alive on Saturday when Igor Kunitsyn and Dmitry Tursunov beat Nalbandian and Guillermo Canas 6-2, 6-1, 6-7, 3-6, 8-6 in a marathon doubles.
That loss also ended world number seven Nalbandian's proud record of 16 wins in 16 Davis Cup rubbers on home soil.
Crucially, Argentina, the runners-up in 1981 and 2006, will have home advantage in the November 21-23 final when Spain will be appearing in their sixth title match.
In the play-offs, where the winners are assured of places in the 2009 World Group, Austria defeated Great Britain 3-2 at Wimbledon.
World number four Andy Murray saw off bitter rival Jurgen Melzer 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-1 to pull the home side level at 2-2.
But Alex Bogdanovic, whose brittle temperament has often been his undoing, then squandered a first set lead to lose to Alexander Peya 2-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-2.
Australia, the 28-time winners, were condemned to another season in the Asia/Oceania zone after losing their play-off to Chile in Antofogasta.
Olympic silver medalist Fernando Gonzalez clinched a straight sets victory over Chris Guccione to give the Chileans a 3-1 winning lead.
Gonzalez, the world number 11, beat the 88th-ranked Guccione 7-6, 7-5, 6-3 before Carsten Ball salvaged a little pride for the Australians, who were playing without the injured Lleyton Hewitt, when he edged Paul Capdeville 6-3, 7-6 in the dead rubber.
Romania retained their place in the World Group after beating India 4-1 in Bucharest.
With a 2-1 overnight advantage, victory was assured when Romania's Victor Hanescu defeated Prakash Amritraj, 6-2, 6-3, 6-1. Victor Crivoi wrapped up the win beating Somdev Devvarman 4-6, 7-5, 6-3.
The Netherlands completed a 3-2 win over South Korea in Apeldoorn.
Thiemo De Bakker secured the vital last point beating Jun Woong-sun 6-2, 6-1, 6-3 after experienced Lee Hyung-Taik had defeated Jesse Huta Galung 1-6, 6-1, 7-6, 6-2 to pull the Koreans level at 2-2.
At Ramat Hasharon, Israel also booked their place in the 16-team World Group after taking a winning lead over Peru thanks to Dudi Sela seeing off Luis Horna 6-7, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2.
Croatia, the 2005 champions, saw off Brazil when Ivo Karlovic beat Thomaz Bellucci 7-6, 6-4, 6-7, 7-6.
Switzerland and Serbia, who had already wrapped up their ties on Saturday, completed 4-1 wins over Belgium and Slovakia respectively.
Berlusconi's rallying cry
AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi issued a rallying cry to his team after they returned to form in style with a 4-1 thrashing of previous Serie A leaders Lazio.
Milan had lost their first two league matches and there was talk of a crisis at the club but goals from Clarence Seedorf, Gianluca Zambrotta, Pato and Kaka helped ease the pressure on coach Carlo Ancelotti.
And now Berlusconi is feeling confident again and has tried to fire his team up to go on and challenge for honours at home and in Europe, while not forgetting the all-important Milan derby at the weekend.
"For sure there's never been a year when I haven't told the team that their objective is to win every competition they play in," he said.
"This year the mandate is to win the championship and the UEFA Cup. I've done what I had to do. Now it's up to them."
Next up is a midweek trip to Reggina but then on Sunday the Milan derby, and Berlusconi is expecting nothing less than three points for his 72nd birthday on September 29, a day after the derby.
"A victory. My team must give me a birthday present," he said.
Vice-president Adriano Galliani was delighted to see the team not only win but play well.
"We're very happy because we haven't only won but we were convincing," he said. "That was a very organised Milan, which is the tactical objective, I believe that's the way we should play."
Milan had lost their first two league matches and there was talk of a crisis at the club but goals from Clarence Seedorf, Gianluca Zambrotta, Pato and Kaka helped ease the pressure on coach Carlo Ancelotti.
And now Berlusconi is feeling confident again and has tried to fire his team up to go on and challenge for honours at home and in Europe, while not forgetting the all-important Milan derby at the weekend.
"For sure there's never been a year when I haven't told the team that their objective is to win every competition they play in," he said.
"This year the mandate is to win the championship and the UEFA Cup. I've done what I had to do. Now it's up to them."
Next up is a midweek trip to Reggina but then on Sunday the Milan derby, and Berlusconi is expecting nothing less than three points for his 72nd birthday on September 29, a day after the derby.
"A victory. My team must give me a birthday present," he said.
Vice-president Adriano Galliani was delighted to see the team not only win but play well.
"We're very happy because we haven't only won but we were convincing," he said. "That was a very organised Milan, which is the tactical objective, I believe that's the way we should play."
Foul-happy Man Utd to be fined
Manchester United are set to be fined 25,000 pounds (46,000 dollars) after receiving seven yellow cards in their 1-1 draw away to Chelsea on Sunday.
Sir Alex Ferguson, the champions' manager, insisted there hadn't been a bad tackle in the match against their perennial Premier League rivals although, come the final whistle there was a clash between United's Rio Ferdinand and Chelsea's Didier Drogba which left the forward needing attention.
"It was a competitive game but I did not think there was one bad tackle in it," said Ferguson of the 1-1 draw.
Referee Mike Riley's performance may have left Ferguson fuming in a match where United took the lead through Park Ji-Sung before Salomon Kalou equalised 10 minutes from time.
But Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari was more sympathetic.
"If players do not respect him, it should be yellow and red cards. It doesn't matter who you are - Liverpool or Manchester United, whoever."
Nevertheless the Blues boss was bemused by Riley blowing for full-time when Drogba was about to receive treatment.
"It was strange that he finished the game at that time but we need to accept his decision."
Sir Alex Ferguson, the champions' manager, insisted there hadn't been a bad tackle in the match against their perennial Premier League rivals although, come the final whistle there was a clash between United's Rio Ferdinand and Chelsea's Didier Drogba which left the forward needing attention.
"It was a competitive game but I did not think there was one bad tackle in it," said Ferguson of the 1-1 draw.
Referee Mike Riley's performance may have left Ferguson fuming in a match where United took the lead through Park Ji-Sung before Salomon Kalou equalised 10 minutes from time.
But Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari was more sympathetic.
"If players do not respect him, it should be yellow and red cards. It doesn't matter who you are - Liverpool or Manchester United, whoever."
Nevertheless the Blues boss was bemused by Riley blowing for full-time when Drogba was about to receive treatment.
"It was strange that he finished the game at that time but we need to accept his decision."
Top coaches at debriefing
Coaches from 53 European Union countries are to meet here Monday for a Euro 2008 debriefing, according to the organising body UEFA.
The conference, called "The UEFA Euro 2008 Experience", will look back at tournament issues such as refereeing, coaching techniques, quality of play and injuries, as well as paying tribute to winning nation Spain.
The review of June's competition in the city that hosted the final is the eighth such post-tournament conference, normally held by UEFA after a major event such as the World Cup or the European championships.
Luis Aragones, who led Spain to glory after a 1-0 victory against Germany in the final, will be present, as will World Cup-winning Italy boss Marcello Lippi and former Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira.
German boss Joachim Low was expected to attend but has pulled out due to an injury to his right knee.
The conference, called "The UEFA Euro 2008 Experience", will look back at tournament issues such as refereeing, coaching techniques, quality of play and injuries, as well as paying tribute to winning nation Spain.
The review of June's competition in the city that hosted the final is the eighth such post-tournament conference, normally held by UEFA after a major event such as the World Cup or the European championships.
Luis Aragones, who led Spain to glory after a 1-0 victory against Germany in the final, will be present, as will World Cup-winning Italy boss Marcello Lippi and former Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira.
German boss Joachim Low was expected to attend but has pulled out due to an injury to his right knee.
'Jose showing his class'
Inter Milan owner Massimo Moratti claims that new coach Jose Mourinho is already showing he's the best in the business.
Mourinho drew his first competitive match in charge 1-1 at Sampdoria but has since won three games in a row, including a 2-0 success at Panathinaikos in the Champions League.
It means Inter head into Sunday's much-anticipated Milan derby in fine fettle and Moratti puts that down to the boss.
"When I brought him in I thought I was bringing in the best. He's showing that and I'm delighted," said Moratti.
At the beginning of the weekend Lazio were top from Atalanta as the only two teams with 100 percent records.
But by the end of the weekend the Serie A table had taken on a more familiar look with Inter top from Juventus in second.
"Are Juve the biggest rivals? Milan scare me and AS Roma are getting back to form. We're only at the beginning and we need to show our own strengths," added Moratti.
"It (the league table) is interesting most of all for the journalists because it gives them something to write about.
"And it's nice also because these are traditionally the two best supported teams in Italy and hence more people are interested in us than any other two teams."
Mourinho drew his first competitive match in charge 1-1 at Sampdoria but has since won three games in a row, including a 2-0 success at Panathinaikos in the Champions League.
It means Inter head into Sunday's much-anticipated Milan derby in fine fettle and Moratti puts that down to the boss.
"When I brought him in I thought I was bringing in the best. He's showing that and I'm delighted," said Moratti.
At the beginning of the weekend Lazio were top from Atalanta as the only two teams with 100 percent records.
But by the end of the weekend the Serie A table had taken on a more familiar look with Inter top from Juventus in second.
"Are Juve the biggest rivals? Milan scare me and AS Roma are getting back to form. We're only at the beginning and we need to show our own strengths," added Moratti.
"It (the league table) is interesting most of all for the journalists because it gives them something to write about.
"And it's nice also because these are traditionally the two best supported teams in Italy and hence more people are interested in us than any other two teams."
Barclays English Premier League 'We can get even better'
Manchester City manager Mark Hughes fired a warning to the rest of the Premier League that his side will get even better after watching them thrash Portsmouth 6-0 at Eastlands.
Just minutes after the club announced that the formal takeover of the club by the Abu Dhabi United Group will be completed on Tuesday, City turned on the style with a stunning display which severely embarrassed last season's FA Cup winners.
Brazilian strikers Robinho and Jo got on the scoresheet while Richard Dunne, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Ched Evans and Gelson Fernandes also took advantage of some shocking defending by Portsmouth.
Hughes, the former Wales and Blackburn boss, described his team's performance as "fantastic" and said Sunday's victory was his most satisfying display as a manager.
But he insisted that his team was young enough to improve further and challenge for a place in the top four.
"It was the manner of the victory that impressed me the most," said Hughes, as his side moved into fifth spot in the table, three points behind early season leaders Arsenal.
"It's been a fantastic day for us with some exceptional personal performances in a great team display.
"But it's still a young team. They are only going to get better. We have set ourselves standards and the key is to build on today and strive to greater heights."
Robinho was outstanding. As early as the third minute he forced David James, who had a miserable return to his former club, into a save before setting fellow Brazilian Jo on his way, the former CSKA Moscow striker skipping past the advancing Portsmouth keeper before rolling the ball into the net.
Portsmouth were 2-0 down at half-time, Dunne tapping home his first Premier League goal since October 2006 after Elano's corner had hit the bottom of the post and rebounded into his path.
Robinho then made it two goals in as many Premier League appearances since his British record 32.5 million pounds move from Real Madrid before Wright-Phillips sparked joyous scenes with his first goal at Eastlands since re-signing from Chelsea.
Portsmouth were shell-shocked yet their troubles were far from over. Teenage substitute Evans made it 5-0 as he took advantage of more chaotic defending before James allowed Fernandes to complete City's biggest Premier League victory.
"At 4-0 the game was effectively over, but the level in performance did not drop," added Hughes. "In the end I was taking players off to allow them to get standing ovations."
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp labelled his side's defending "abysmal."
"I didn't see that result coming because we have just had three fantastic wins," he said. "I'm bitterly disappointed. We gave away some poor goals and our defensive play was abysmal. It was a catalogue of errors.
"We will have a look at the video and look at the goals we conceded. It's out of character because last season we had the second best away record in the league. It's only two weeks ago that we were celebrating a 3-0 win at Everton."
Just minutes after the club announced that the formal takeover of the club by the Abu Dhabi United Group will be completed on Tuesday, City turned on the style with a stunning display which severely embarrassed last season's FA Cup winners.
Brazilian strikers Robinho and Jo got on the scoresheet while Richard Dunne, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Ched Evans and Gelson Fernandes also took advantage of some shocking defending by Portsmouth.
Hughes, the former Wales and Blackburn boss, described his team's performance as "fantastic" and said Sunday's victory was his most satisfying display as a manager.
But he insisted that his team was young enough to improve further and challenge for a place in the top four.
"It was the manner of the victory that impressed me the most," said Hughes, as his side moved into fifth spot in the table, three points behind early season leaders Arsenal.
"It's been a fantastic day for us with some exceptional personal performances in a great team display.
"But it's still a young team. They are only going to get better. We have set ourselves standards and the key is to build on today and strive to greater heights."
Robinho was outstanding. As early as the third minute he forced David James, who had a miserable return to his former club, into a save before setting fellow Brazilian Jo on his way, the former CSKA Moscow striker skipping past the advancing Portsmouth keeper before rolling the ball into the net.
Portsmouth were 2-0 down at half-time, Dunne tapping home his first Premier League goal since October 2006 after Elano's corner had hit the bottom of the post and rebounded into his path.
Robinho then made it two goals in as many Premier League appearances since his British record 32.5 million pounds move from Real Madrid before Wright-Phillips sparked joyous scenes with his first goal at Eastlands since re-signing from Chelsea.
Portsmouth were shell-shocked yet their troubles were far from over. Teenage substitute Evans made it 5-0 as he took advantage of more chaotic defending before James allowed Fernandes to complete City's biggest Premier League victory.
"At 4-0 the game was effectively over, but the level in performance did not drop," added Hughes. "In the end I was taking players off to allow them to get standing ovations."
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp labelled his side's defending "abysmal."
"I didn't see that result coming because we have just had three fantastic wins," he said. "I'm bitterly disappointed. We gave away some poor goals and our defensive play was abysmal. It was a catalogue of errors.
"We will have a look at the video and look at the goals we conceded. It's out of character because last season we had the second best away record in the league. It's only two weeks ago that we were celebrating a 3-0 win at Everton."
Barca hit their stride
Barcelona registered their first league win of the season and they did it in style with a 6-1 demolition of ten-man Sporting Gijon on Sunday.
Barcelona started the match in the unusual position of third from bottom after struggling to convert chances but they let off steam by running riot in Gijon.
Two goals inside five minutes from Xavi and Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o put Barca in control and an own goal made it 3-0.
Andres Iniesta then capped a brilliant move with a delicate finish and Argentine Lionel Messi scored twice in the final five minutes to push the Catalans up to ninth.
"We said that we were playing quite well and the goals would come eventually and they have done tonight," said goalscorer Eto'o.
It was Pep Guardiola's first league victory since replacing Frank Rijkaard in the summer and Barca are now just three points behind the leaders.
"It was three vital points and I am sure we will get better," explained Guardiola. "Scoring first really helped us and apart from the result what really pleased me was how we retrieved the ball quickly and were very active when we had it."
Real Madrid moved to within a point of the leading quartet with a 2-0 triumph at Racing Santander.
Midfielder Ruben de la Red, back at Real after a successful season's loan at Getafe, scored his first league goal for the club and Ruud van Nistelrooy produced a deadly finish as the champions rose to sixth in the table.
The clean sheet will also please coach Bernd Schuster who criticised his team for conceding five goals in their opening two league fixtures.
"At the beginning of the season there are always problems that emerge that you need to work on," said Schuster.
"We are working day by day and the most important thing is that the attitude is right. I thought we were much better tonight."
Four teams share top spot in Spain including title dark horses Villarreal and Valencia who recorded victories over Numancia and Osasuna respectively.
Villarreal, who earned a creditable 0-0 Champions League draw at Manchester United on Wednesday, came from a goal down to defeat Numancia 2-1 with Jose Llorente scoring the winner with his first goal for the club.
"It is no surprise that Barcelona lost here and it was a difficult game," said Villarreal coach Manuel Pellegrini. "Patience was the key."
Valencia lead the standings on goal difference after a late Juan Mata goal downed ten-man Osasuna at the Mestalla.
Mata struck seven minutes from time for the breakthrough after Osasuna had been reduced to ten men with Cesar Azpilicueta received his marching orders just after the hour for a second booking.
"Being top is not that significant as there are various teams with seven points," said Valencia coach Unai Emery.
"The most important thing for us is that we are improving and collecting points from difficult games like this one. We knew it was a test of patience because Osasuna are hard to open up."
Four teams are locked on seven points at the summit with Almeria continuing their great start to the season with a 1-0 home victory over Malaga.
Alvaro Negredo struck on 74 minutes with the decisive goal and undefeated Almeria join Espanyol, Villarreal and Valencia at the top.
Honours were shared in the hotly-contested derby match between Real Betis and Sevilla at the Manuel Ruiz de Lopera which ended 0-0.
"We didn't lose but perhaps we should have been more ambitious like we were in the final 25 minutes," said Sevilla coach Manolo Jimenez.
Sevilla completed a league double over Betis last season and the hosts set up with a 4-5-1 to make life difficult for the visitors.
It worked as Sevilla, 2-0 winners over Salzburg in the UEFA Cup, failed to find a way through the bottleneck.
Elsewhere, Deportivo La Coruna failed to get their UEFA Cup nightmare - they lost 2-0 to Norwegians Brann - out of their system in a frustrating 0-0 draw with Real Mallorca.
Barcelona started the match in the unusual position of third from bottom after struggling to convert chances but they let off steam by running riot in Gijon.
Two goals inside five minutes from Xavi and Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o put Barca in control and an own goal made it 3-0.
Andres Iniesta then capped a brilliant move with a delicate finish and Argentine Lionel Messi scored twice in the final five minutes to push the Catalans up to ninth.
"We said that we were playing quite well and the goals would come eventually and they have done tonight," said goalscorer Eto'o.
It was Pep Guardiola's first league victory since replacing Frank Rijkaard in the summer and Barca are now just three points behind the leaders.
"It was three vital points and I am sure we will get better," explained Guardiola. "Scoring first really helped us and apart from the result what really pleased me was how we retrieved the ball quickly and were very active when we had it."
Real Madrid moved to within a point of the leading quartet with a 2-0 triumph at Racing Santander.
Midfielder Ruben de la Red, back at Real after a successful season's loan at Getafe, scored his first league goal for the club and Ruud van Nistelrooy produced a deadly finish as the champions rose to sixth in the table.
The clean sheet will also please coach Bernd Schuster who criticised his team for conceding five goals in their opening two league fixtures.
"At the beginning of the season there are always problems that emerge that you need to work on," said Schuster.
"We are working day by day and the most important thing is that the attitude is right. I thought we were much better tonight."
Four teams share top spot in Spain including title dark horses Villarreal and Valencia who recorded victories over Numancia and Osasuna respectively.
Villarreal, who earned a creditable 0-0 Champions League draw at Manchester United on Wednesday, came from a goal down to defeat Numancia 2-1 with Jose Llorente scoring the winner with his first goal for the club.
"It is no surprise that Barcelona lost here and it was a difficult game," said Villarreal coach Manuel Pellegrini. "Patience was the key."
Valencia lead the standings on goal difference after a late Juan Mata goal downed ten-man Osasuna at the Mestalla.
Mata struck seven minutes from time for the breakthrough after Osasuna had been reduced to ten men with Cesar Azpilicueta received his marching orders just after the hour for a second booking.
"Being top is not that significant as there are various teams with seven points," said Valencia coach Unai Emery.
"The most important thing for us is that we are improving and collecting points from difficult games like this one. We knew it was a test of patience because Osasuna are hard to open up."
Four teams are locked on seven points at the summit with Almeria continuing their great start to the season with a 1-0 home victory over Malaga.
Alvaro Negredo struck on 74 minutes with the decisive goal and undefeated Almeria join Espanyol, Villarreal and Valencia at the top.
Honours were shared in the hotly-contested derby match between Real Betis and Sevilla at the Manuel Ruiz de Lopera which ended 0-0.
"We didn't lose but perhaps we should have been more ambitious like we were in the final 25 minutes," said Sevilla coach Manolo Jimenez.
Sevilla completed a league double over Betis last season and the hosts set up with a 4-5-1 to make life difficult for the visitors.
It worked as Sevilla, 2-0 winners over Salzburg in the UEFA Cup, failed to find a way through the bottleneck.
Elsewhere, Deportivo La Coruna failed to get their UEFA Cup nightmare - they lost 2-0 to Norwegians Brann - out of their system in a frustrating 0-0 draw with Real Mallorca.
Bangladesh Boys edge Bima
Bangladesh Boys Club earned full points in the Second Division Football League when they defeated Sadharan Bima by a solitary goal at the Birshreshtha Shaheed Mostafa Kamal Stadium in Kamalapur yesterday.
Harunur Rashid slotted the match winner in the 55th minute.
In the day's other match, Police AC drew 1-1 with Basabo Torun Sangha at the Army Stadium. Khaled put Basabo ahead after 21 minutes but Police came back through Amirul's 37th minute equaliser.
Harunur Rashid slotted the match winner in the 55th minute.
In the day's other match, Police AC drew 1-1 with Basabo Torun Sangha at the Army Stadium. Khaled put Basabo ahead after 21 minutes but Police came back through Amirul's 37th minute equaliser.
Gillespie's tips to Ponting & co
Former Australian pacer Jason Gillespie feels the world champions' success in India would depend on how well Ricky Ponting's men exploit the poor fitness levels of the host batsmen, who rely too heavily on "walking" singles and hitting boundaries for scoring.
Gillespie clinched 20 wickets at an average of 16.15 during the 2004 Test series which Australia won to end a 35-year-old jinx.
"I remember one of the big things we did was working on the fitness of the Indian batsmen. They're not regarded as the fittest blokes in the world, and generally score their runs either walking singles or hitting fours," Gillespie told 'The Sydney Morning Herald'.
"So we would have three or four sweepers out at different times, and the tactic worked really well. To VVS Laxman and Virender Sehwag it was particularly effective," he revealed.
"Probably the most enjoyable thing about that tour for me was the different plans we used. At one stage, you had Glenn McGrath taking the new ball with four blokes on the fence.
"You had to put your ego to one side, and everyone was happy to do that. We did the jobs we had to do as a fast-bowling unit, and it worked. I'm sure they'll try something similar again."
Gillespie clinched 20 wickets at an average of 16.15 during the 2004 Test series which Australia won to end a 35-year-old jinx.
"I remember one of the big things we did was working on the fitness of the Indian batsmen. They're not regarded as the fittest blokes in the world, and generally score their runs either walking singles or hitting fours," Gillespie told 'The Sydney Morning Herald'.
"So we would have three or four sweepers out at different times, and the tactic worked really well. To VVS Laxman and Virender Sehwag it was particularly effective," he revealed.
"Probably the most enjoyable thing about that tour for me was the different plans we used. At one stage, you had Glenn McGrath taking the new ball with four blokes on the fence.
"You had to put your ego to one side, and everyone was happy to do that. We did the jobs we had to do as a fast-bowling unit, and it worked. I'm sure they'll try something similar again."
Shoaib hearing on October 4
Lahore's High Court has on Monday deferred making a decision on whether Shoaib Akhtar has to pay a fine of 7 million rupees (approx 105,000 dollars) to the Pakistan Cricket Board.
The hearing has now been set for October 3 and uncertainty remains over whether he will be able to play in the opening round of Pakistan's domestic Twenty20 tournament.
The PCB had sought a ruling from the court on whether Shoaib was eligible to play domestic and international cricket without paying the fine. The board hit Shoaib, 33, with the punishment last month after he criticised the PCB over its failure to award him a central contract. He was initially banned by the PCB for five years, but the sentence was subsequently suspended by the court.
"Since Akhtar's lawyer was not in the court today, the judge has postponed the hearing," PCB lawyer Tafazzul Rizvi told reporters after the short hearing. "Early October was the earliest possible date that the judge could give."
Shoaib, who has just finished an unsuccessful two-match stint with Surrey in England, is due to turn out for Islamabad Leopards in Pakistan's domestic Twenty20 tournament, which begins in Lahore on October 4. The board maintains that if the dispute over the fine is not settled when the court next meets then he will not be able to play.
The hearing has now been set for October 3 and uncertainty remains over whether he will be able to play in the opening round of Pakistan's domestic Twenty20 tournament.
The PCB had sought a ruling from the court on whether Shoaib was eligible to play domestic and international cricket without paying the fine. The board hit Shoaib, 33, with the punishment last month after he criticised the PCB over its failure to award him a central contract. He was initially banned by the PCB for five years, but the sentence was subsequently suspended by the court.
"Since Akhtar's lawyer was not in the court today, the judge has postponed the hearing," PCB lawyer Tafazzul Rizvi told reporters after the short hearing. "Early October was the earliest possible date that the judge could give."
Shoaib, who has just finished an unsuccessful two-match stint with Surrey in England, is due to turn out for Islamabad Leopards in Pakistan's domestic Twenty20 tournament, which begins in Lahore on October 4. The board maintains that if the dispute over the fine is not settled when the court next meets then he will not be able to play.
Stanford tie uncertain
The world's richest cricket match the 20-million-dollar Stanford Super Series clash here on November 1 may be abandoned without a ball being bowled because of a commercial row.
The Stanford organisers and Digicel, the multi-million dollar sponsors of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), are locked in a row over commercial rights at the match being played at the Stanford Cricket Ground.
Digicel believes its five-year deal with the WICB includes the match, which features the Stanford Superstars taking on Kevin Pietersen's England, as it is officially backed by the board; the Stanford organisers claim as the Superstars are not an official side it is outside any existing sponsorship deal.
"The International Cricket Council (ICC) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have confirmed that they do not consider the Stanford Superstars team to be a West Indies team," said a Stanford statement.
"The Superstars team is selected solely by Stanford 20/20 and Stanford 20/20 is not willing to gift to Digicel valuable rights to which it is simply not entitled and which Stanford 20/20 intends to sell as part of a presenting sponsor package for the Stanford Super Series."
The proposed Twenty20 match, where each member of the winning team is set to win a million dollars, has already been the subject of legal action at London's High Court, where an arbitration hearing is set to take place early next month.
This latest commercial fall-out comes just days after claims that two players from the squad created by Texan billionaire Allen Stanford, including a West Indies batsman, had failed drugs tests.
West Indies Cricket Board chief executive Donald Peters has objected to media reports linking him to confirmation of the alleged positive tests.
"We cannot confirm anything because we have no formal reports that the players were ever tested, and the Stanford people have not informed us who the players were, so we are not able to confirm it," Peters said.
"An Indian reporter contacted me about the matter, and the next thing I know, I see this report on a website quoting me, so I will have to ask for a retraction and, hopefully, it can be dealt with speedily."
Since no formal notification has been received from the Stanford group, Peters explained the WICB could not proceed with any sanctions.
But if any player was found guilty of a positive test, action would be taken by the regional governing body following legal advice.
"This is the normal course of action should someone return a positive test, since the WICB does indeed have a disciplinary process in place for anti-doping cases."
He added the WICB would also need to consult with their lawyers, since this was a unique case, with the players in the Stanford Superstars side not directly under the supervision of the board.
The Stanford organisers and Digicel, the multi-million dollar sponsors of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), are locked in a row over commercial rights at the match being played at the Stanford Cricket Ground.
Digicel believes its five-year deal with the WICB includes the match, which features the Stanford Superstars taking on Kevin Pietersen's England, as it is officially backed by the board; the Stanford organisers claim as the Superstars are not an official side it is outside any existing sponsorship deal.
"The International Cricket Council (ICC) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have confirmed that they do not consider the Stanford Superstars team to be a West Indies team," said a Stanford statement.
"The Superstars team is selected solely by Stanford 20/20 and Stanford 20/20 is not willing to gift to Digicel valuable rights to which it is simply not entitled and which Stanford 20/20 intends to sell as part of a presenting sponsor package for the Stanford Super Series."
The proposed Twenty20 match, where each member of the winning team is set to win a million dollars, has already been the subject of legal action at London's High Court, where an arbitration hearing is set to take place early next month.
This latest commercial fall-out comes just days after claims that two players from the squad created by Texan billionaire Allen Stanford, including a West Indies batsman, had failed drugs tests.
West Indies Cricket Board chief executive Donald Peters has objected to media reports linking him to confirmation of the alleged positive tests.
"We cannot confirm anything because we have no formal reports that the players were ever tested, and the Stanford people have not informed us who the players were, so we are not able to confirm it," Peters said.
"An Indian reporter contacted me about the matter, and the next thing I know, I see this report on a website quoting me, so I will have to ask for a retraction and, hopefully, it can be dealt with speedily."
Since no formal notification has been received from the Stanford group, Peters explained the WICB could not proceed with any sanctions.
But if any player was found guilty of a positive test, action would be taken by the regional governing body following legal advice.
"This is the normal course of action should someone return a positive test, since the WICB does indeed have a disciplinary process in place for anti-doping cases."
He added the WICB would also need to consult with their lawyers, since this was a unique case, with the players in the Stanford Superstars side not directly under the supervision of the board.
Serie A Milan ease woes
AC Milan returned to form with a thumping 4-1 victory over previously unbea ten Lazio at the San Siro on Sunday to ease the pressure on under-fire coach Carlo Ancelotti.
The former Milan and AS Roma midfielder had been feeling the strain after his team lost their first two Serie A encounters.
But a midweek UEFA Cup success against FC Zurich restored Milan's self-confidence and goals from Clarence Seedorf, Gianluca Zambrotta, Pato and Kaka earned them a much-needed first three league points of the season.
But despite the victory, Ancelotti is not about to start relaxing.
"I'm not sure the crisis is over yet," he warned before praising his side's attacking endeavour.
"We're an attack-minded team and so we can be vulnerable at the back. Today, however, we were more careful. I don't know if the negative period is over. I'd say not because you have to be careful."
Milan went in front as Seedorf tried to play a pass to Marco Borriello on the edge of the box only to see the ball rebound to him off a defender's chest before finishing with aplomb.
Lazio's Argentine forward Mauro Zarate restored parity after running through a gaping hole in the Milan backline but fullback Zambrotta netted a howitzer from 30 yards to give Milan a 2-1 lead at the break.
Pato converted a Marek Jankulovski cross soon after the restart with a diving header and then Kaka robbed former Milan player Christian Brocchi before curling home a sumptuous fourth.
Earlier in the day, Jose Mourinho continued his fine start to life at Inter Milan as his side won 3-1 at Torino to go top.
An own goal by Marco Pisano, a fierce drive from Brazilian fullback Maicon and a clever finish with the outside of his boot from Zlatan Ibrahimovic provided further proof that the marriage between Inter and Mourinho is quickly bearing fruit.
Inter were at their dominant best and there were clear signs that Mourinho's magic has already started to take effect.
The former Chelsea manager started the redeemed Adriano up front alongside Sweden striker Ibrahimovic and the pair proved too much for Torino.
But Mourinho chose to focus on the Swede's contribution at the beginning of the campaign than Adriano's return.
"Ibrahimovic has had two incredible games and again today he was exceptional," said Mourinho. "Is Adriano back? We'll see. For me it's not enough to play well once in the league and once in the Champions League.
"For me it's more important that he realises that he messed up a lot."
Adriano lost form and shape over the previous two seasons and also complained of depression leading to a loan move to Sao Paulo. But now he is on the right track to get back to his best.
Torino's Elvis Abbruscato netted a Jurgen Samuel cross from close range for a consolation goal 14 minutes from time.
The top of the tree is taking on a familiar look with Juventus moving up to second after their 1-0 success at rock-bottom Cagliari.
Juve were without injured French forward David Trezeguet but new Brazilian signing Amauri proved he is more than an ample replacement as he volleyed home strike partner Vincenzo Iaquinta's flick-on after 39 minutes.
In Florence, Antonio Gilardino continued his return to top form with the winning goal for Fiorentina against Bologna in a 1-0 victory.
Gilardino, whose career seemed to be stalling at Milan last season, peeled off to the back post to thump home a header from Mario Santana's right-wing cross eight minutes before the break.
The former Milan and AS Roma midfielder had been feeling the strain after his team lost their first two Serie A encounters.
But a midweek UEFA Cup success against FC Zurich restored Milan's self-confidence and goals from Clarence Seedorf, Gianluca Zambrotta, Pato and Kaka earned them a much-needed first three league points of the season.
But despite the victory, Ancelotti is not about to start relaxing.
"I'm not sure the crisis is over yet," he warned before praising his side's attacking endeavour.
"We're an attack-minded team and so we can be vulnerable at the back. Today, however, we were more careful. I don't know if the negative period is over. I'd say not because you have to be careful."
Milan went in front as Seedorf tried to play a pass to Marco Borriello on the edge of the box only to see the ball rebound to him off a defender's chest before finishing with aplomb.
Lazio's Argentine forward Mauro Zarate restored parity after running through a gaping hole in the Milan backline but fullback Zambrotta netted a howitzer from 30 yards to give Milan a 2-1 lead at the break.
Pato converted a Marek Jankulovski cross soon after the restart with a diving header and then Kaka robbed former Milan player Christian Brocchi before curling home a sumptuous fourth.
Earlier in the day, Jose Mourinho continued his fine start to life at Inter Milan as his side won 3-1 at Torino to go top.
An own goal by Marco Pisano, a fierce drive from Brazilian fullback Maicon and a clever finish with the outside of his boot from Zlatan Ibrahimovic provided further proof that the marriage between Inter and Mourinho is quickly bearing fruit.
Inter were at their dominant best and there were clear signs that Mourinho's magic has already started to take effect.
The former Chelsea manager started the redeemed Adriano up front alongside Sweden striker Ibrahimovic and the pair proved too much for Torino.
But Mourinho chose to focus on the Swede's contribution at the beginning of the campaign than Adriano's return.
"Ibrahimovic has had two incredible games and again today he was exceptional," said Mourinho. "Is Adriano back? We'll see. For me it's not enough to play well once in the league and once in the Champions League.
"For me it's more important that he realises that he messed up a lot."
Adriano lost form and shape over the previous two seasons and also complained of depression leading to a loan move to Sao Paulo. But now he is on the right track to get back to his best.
Torino's Elvis Abbruscato netted a Jurgen Samuel cross from close range for a consolation goal 14 minutes from time.
The top of the tree is taking on a familiar look with Juventus moving up to second after their 1-0 success at rock-bottom Cagliari.
Juve were without injured French forward David Trezeguet but new Brazilian signing Amauri proved he is more than an ample replacement as he volleyed home strike partner Vincenzo Iaquinta's flick-on after 39 minutes.
In Florence, Antonio Gilardino continued his return to top form with the winning goal for Fiorentina against Bologna in a 1-0 victory.
Gilardino, whose career seemed to be stalling at Milan last season, peeled off to the back post to thump home a header from Mario Santana's right-wing cross eight minutes before the break.
Selection row hits Sri Lanka
A selection dispute has hit the announcement of the Sri Lankan national team for the Twenty20 competition in Canada, officials said Sunday.
Sports Minister Gamini Lokuge told AFP he was considering a complaint from batsman Indika de Saram who had complained after not being selected for the team to play in the Canada Cup next month, which will also include the hosts, Pakistan and Zimbabwe.
"I have had a letter from de Saram. Also there was no name of a team manager in the team sheet sent to me. So I have returned it to Sri Lanka Cricket [SLC]," Lokuge added.
Sri Lanka Cricket on Wednesday sent the team for Lokuge's ratification before it could be officially announced. The team will be without seniors Muttiah Muralitharan, Chaminda Vaas, Kumar Sangakkara and Chamara Silva.
De Saram and another all-rounder Chinthaka Jayasinghe feel aggrieved at not being picked despite good performances at home.
SUBMITTED TEAM
Mahela Jayawardene, Sanath Jayasuriya, Mahela Udawatta, Chamara Kapugedera, Jehan Mubarak, Tillekeratne Dilshan, Jeevantha Kulatunga, Farveez Maharoof, Nuwan Kulasekera, Thilan Thushara, Ajantha Mendis, Thilina Kandamby, Dilhara Fernando, Dilhara Lokuhettige and Kaushalya Weeraratne.
Sports Minister Gamini Lokuge told AFP he was considering a complaint from batsman Indika de Saram who had complained after not being selected for the team to play in the Canada Cup next month, which will also include the hosts, Pakistan and Zimbabwe.
"I have had a letter from de Saram. Also there was no name of a team manager in the team sheet sent to me. So I have returned it to Sri Lanka Cricket [SLC]," Lokuge added.
Sri Lanka Cricket on Wednesday sent the team for Lokuge's ratification before it could be officially announced. The team will be without seniors Muttiah Muralitharan, Chaminda Vaas, Kumar Sangakkara and Chamara Silva.
De Saram and another all-rounder Chinthaka Jayasinghe feel aggrieved at not being picked despite good performances at home.
SUBMITTED TEAM
Mahela Jayawardene, Sanath Jayasuriya, Mahela Udawatta, Chamara Kapugedera, Jehan Mubarak, Tillekeratne Dilshan, Jeevantha Kulatunga, Farveez Maharoof, Nuwan Kulasekera, Thilan Thushara, Ajantha Mendis, Thilina Kandamby, Dilhara Fernando, Dilhara Lokuhettige and Kaushalya Weeraratne.
Aussies arrive in India
Ricky Ponting's Australia arrived in India on Monday for a four-Test tour, setting aside security worries following deadly bomb blasts in the country and in neighbouring Pakistan.
The 15-man squad will spend the next week training in Jaipur before flying to Hyderabad for a four-day match against the Indian Board President's XI from October 2.
That will be Australia's only warm-up before the first Test opens in Bangalore on October 9. The remaining Tests will be played in Mohali, New Delhi and Nagpur.
The highly-anticipated tour had been placed in doubt after five coordinated bomb blasts ripped through crowded markets in New Delhi on September 13, killing more than 20 people.
A suicide attack on the Marriott Hotel in the Pakistani capital of Islamabad on Saturday that killed 53 people and wounded 266 forced Ponting to admit security concerns were on his mind before the team left Australia.
"I've done it all day today, I've had a lot of discussions with my wife about those exact issues," Ponting said in Sydney on Sunday.
"Our advice was not to go to Pakistan and the advice that we received the last few weeks to tour India has been positive."
Australia cancelled a Test tour of Pakistan in March and also raised security concerns about this month's Champions Trophy there, forcing the tournament to be put off by a year.
SQUAD
Ricky Ponting (captain), Matthew Hayden, Phil Jaques, Michael Clarke (vice-captain), Simon Katich, Michael Hussey, Shane Watson, Brad Haddin (wicketkeeper), Brett Lee, Stuart Clark, Mitchell Johnson, Doug Bollinger, Peter Siddle, Bryce McGain, Jason Krejza.
The 15-man squad will spend the next week training in Jaipur before flying to Hyderabad for a four-day match against the Indian Board President's XI from October 2.
That will be Australia's only warm-up before the first Test opens in Bangalore on October 9. The remaining Tests will be played in Mohali, New Delhi and Nagpur.
The highly-anticipated tour had been placed in doubt after five coordinated bomb blasts ripped through crowded markets in New Delhi on September 13, killing more than 20 people.
A suicide attack on the Marriott Hotel in the Pakistani capital of Islamabad on Saturday that killed 53 people and wounded 266 forced Ponting to admit security concerns were on his mind before the team left Australia.
"I've done it all day today, I've had a lot of discussions with my wife about those exact issues," Ponting said in Sydney on Sunday.
"Our advice was not to go to Pakistan and the advice that we received the last few weeks to tour India has been positive."
Australia cancelled a Test tour of Pakistan in March and also raised security concerns about this month's Champions Trophy there, forcing the tournament to be put off by a year.
SQUAD
Ricky Ponting (captain), Matthew Hayden, Phil Jaques, Michael Clarke (vice-captain), Simon Katich, Michael Hussey, Shane Watson, Brad Haddin (wicketkeeper), Brett Lee, Stuart Clark, Mitchell Johnson, Doug Bollinger, Peter Siddle, Bryce McGain, Jason Krejza.
Aussies arrive in India
Ricky Ponting's Australia arrived in India on Monday for a four-Test tour, setting aside security worries following deadly bomb blasts in the country and in neighbouring Pakistan.
The 15-man squad will spend the next week training in Jaipur before flying to Hyderabad for a four-day match against the Indian Board President's XI from October 2.
That will be Australia's only warm-up before the first Test opens in Bangalore on October 9. The remaining Tests will be played in Mohali, New Delhi and Nagpur.
The highly-anticipated tour had been placed in doubt after five coordinated bomb blasts ripped through crowded markets in New Delhi on September 13, killing more than 20 people.
A suicide attack on the Marriott Hotel in the Pakistani capital of Islamabad on Saturday that killed 53 people and wounded 266 forced Ponting to admit security concerns were on his mind before the team left Australia.
"I've done it all day today, I've had a lot of discussions with my wife about those exact issues," Ponting said in Sydney on Sunday.
"Our advice was not to go to Pakistan and the advice that we received the last few weeks to tour India has been positive."
Australia cancelled a Test tour of Pakistan in March and also raised security concerns about this month's Champions Trophy there, forcing the tournament to be put off by a year.
SQUAD
Ricky Ponting (captain), Matthew Hayden, Phil Jaques, Michael Clarke (vice-captain), Simon Katich, Michael Hussey, Shane Watson, Brad Haddin (wicketkeeper), Brett Lee, Stuart Clark, Mitchell Johnson, Doug Bollinger, Peter Siddle, Bryce McGain, Jason Krejza.
The 15-man squad will spend the next week training in Jaipur before flying to Hyderabad for a four-day match against the Indian Board President's XI from October 2.
That will be Australia's only warm-up before the first Test opens in Bangalore on October 9. The remaining Tests will be played in Mohali, New Delhi and Nagpur.
The highly-anticipated tour had been placed in doubt after five coordinated bomb blasts ripped through crowded markets in New Delhi on September 13, killing more than 20 people.
A suicide attack on the Marriott Hotel in the Pakistani capital of Islamabad on Saturday that killed 53 people and wounded 266 forced Ponting to admit security concerns were on his mind before the team left Australia.
"I've done it all day today, I've had a lot of discussions with my wife about those exact issues," Ponting said in Sydney on Sunday.
"Our advice was not to go to Pakistan and the advice that we received the last few weeks to tour India has been positive."
Australia cancelled a Test tour of Pakistan in March and also raised security concerns about this month's Champions Trophy there, forcing the tournament to be put off by a year.
SQUAD
Ricky Ponting (captain), Matthew Hayden, Phil Jaques, Michael Clarke (vice-captain), Simon Katich, Michael Hussey, Shane Watson, Brad Haddin (wicketkeeper), Brett Lee, Stuart Clark, Mitchell Johnson, Doug Bollinger, Peter Siddle, Bryce McGain, Jason Krejza.
Sachin fit for Australia
Batting superstar Sachin Tendulkar will be available for India's upcoming Test series against Australia despite racing against time to be fit, an official said on Monday.
Tendulkar, 35, opted out of a five-day trial match starting in Vadodara on Wednesday after being advised to take a week's rest to recover from an elbow injury sustained during the recent Sri Lanka tour.
The news sent shockwaves across India, but cricket board secretary Niranjan Shah denied media reports that Tendulkar could miss the four-Test series against the world champions starting on October 9.
"The physiotherapist wants him to take another week off as a precautionary measure, but he will certainly be available for the Test matches," Shah told reporters.
Tendulkar will be replaced by Subramaniam Badrinath in the Rest of India squad that takes on Ranji Trophy champions Delhi in the five-day Irani Cup match in Vadodara.
The Indian squad for the first Test in Bangalore will be named after the match.
Tendulkar, a veteran of 150 Tests, needs 77 runs to overtake retired West Indian Brian Lara's record tally of 11,953 runs and become Test cricket's highest run-getter.
The Indian already has a record 39 Test and 42 one-day centuries and is also the world's leading one-day batsman with 16,361 runs from 417 matches.
Tendulkar is hoping to make amends for a poor series in Sri Lanka, where his highest score was 31 in three Tests which the hosts won 2-1.
The world's most senior cricketer, who made his Test debut in 1989, has been plagued by a spate of injuries in recent times and underwent corrective surgery on his left elbow in 2005.
Tendulkar injured the elbow again while attempting to take a catch in the third Test in Sri Lanka last month and missed the subsequent one-day series.
Tendulkar, 35, opted out of a five-day trial match starting in Vadodara on Wednesday after being advised to take a week's rest to recover from an elbow injury sustained during the recent Sri Lanka tour.
The news sent shockwaves across India, but cricket board secretary Niranjan Shah denied media reports that Tendulkar could miss the four-Test series against the world champions starting on October 9.
"The physiotherapist wants him to take another week off as a precautionary measure, but he will certainly be available for the Test matches," Shah told reporters.
Tendulkar will be replaced by Subramaniam Badrinath in the Rest of India squad that takes on Ranji Trophy champions Delhi in the five-day Irani Cup match in Vadodara.
The Indian squad for the first Test in Bangalore will be named after the match.
Tendulkar, a veteran of 150 Tests, needs 77 runs to overtake retired West Indian Brian Lara's record tally of 11,953 runs and become Test cricket's highest run-getter.
The Indian already has a record 39 Test and 42 one-day centuries and is also the world's leading one-day batsman with 16,361 runs from 417 matches.
Tendulkar is hoping to make amends for a poor series in Sri Lanka, where his highest score was 31 in three Tests which the hosts won 2-1.
The world's most senior cricketer, who made his Test debut in 1989, has been plagued by a spate of injuries in recent times and underwent corrective surgery on his left elbow in 2005.
Tendulkar injured the elbow again while attempting to take a catch in the third Test in Sri Lanka last month and missed the subsequent one-day series.
Citycell B League Brothers at ease
A late flurry of goals ensured Brothers Union's first victory in the Citycell B. League when they crushed opening round's surprise leaders Khulna Abahani 3-1 yesterday.
Brothers, who stumbled to a 1-1 draw against Chittagong Moha-mnmedan at home last week, were facing a confident local side at the Khulna Stadium but went ahead only after 17 minutes from a penalty.
Nigerian defender Divine slotted the spotkick to give the Dhaka giants a 1-0 first half lead while Tapu and substitute Manju added o the total in the last 17 minutes to take their collection to four points, level with Mohammedan, Chittagong Abahani and Sheikh Russel. Khulna Abahani stuck to three points with one win and a loss.
For the hosts, who upset last year's third Muktijoddha 3-1 in the first round in Dhaka, Mehdi Hasan Pashbon scored his third league goal to reduce the arrears.
The Oranges, who fielded two foreigners in the starting line-up and made three changes from the previous match brining in ace defender Masud Rana, midfielder Zahid and striker Tapu, took early control and the pressure told when right-sided midfielder Arup was brought down by Khulna defender Nasir inside the area.
Divine coolly kept his 12-yarder on target but Brothers, despite enjoying superior ball possession, failed to increase the margin till the 73rd minute when Tapu nodded in a right-side centre by Zahid.
Tapu, however, left the ground with burning skin when the striker was wounded following a slide on the goalline as the quicklime (Calcium Oxide) -- used to mark the line -- came in contact with his groin.
The Brothers backline went casual after the two-goal cushion but it served them a warning as Mehdi Hasan, who fired twice against Muktijoddha in the first round, ran through the whole defence to score an excellent solo goal in the 74th minute. The 19-year-old Mehdi now tops the scorers' list ahead of two-goal Touati Youness and Alfaz Ahmed of Sheikh Russel.
The home side made a late effort to equalise but Brothers survived the pressure to seal the victory for Wasim Iqbal's side in the 89th minute when Manju, who replaced Nigerian forward Michael Oniya, drilled a low angled drive into the far corner from the corner of the penalty box.
"It was a very difficult match for us because we had a long journey from Dhaka and had to play on we ground," said manager Amer Khan, who was on way back to the capital with his players in the evening.
"We have to return tonight because we have a match on Thursday. Also, two of our players were injured after coming in contact with quicklime on the lines. Ariful's condition is not that bad but Tapu has suffered serious injury," said Amer.
The match was played in heavy showers and even the players sitting the in bench were not spared, complained the former Oranges footballer, who was however satisfied with the team's performance.
"We dominated from the start and the early goal helped. It was not the case when we drew with Chittagong Mohammedan. After going two-up, the players looked a bit relaxed and conceded a goal due to defence lapse. We hope to look after these small mistakes in the future," he added.
Brothers, who stumbled to a 1-1 draw against Chittagong Moha-mnmedan at home last week, were facing a confident local side at the Khulna Stadium but went ahead only after 17 minutes from a penalty.
Nigerian defender Divine slotted the spotkick to give the Dhaka giants a 1-0 first half lead while Tapu and substitute Manju added o the total in the last 17 minutes to take their collection to four points, level with Mohammedan, Chittagong Abahani and Sheikh Russel. Khulna Abahani stuck to three points with one win and a loss.
For the hosts, who upset last year's third Muktijoddha 3-1 in the first round in Dhaka, Mehdi Hasan Pashbon scored his third league goal to reduce the arrears.
The Oranges, who fielded two foreigners in the starting line-up and made three changes from the previous match brining in ace defender Masud Rana, midfielder Zahid and striker Tapu, took early control and the pressure told when right-sided midfielder Arup was brought down by Khulna defender Nasir inside the area.
Divine coolly kept his 12-yarder on target but Brothers, despite enjoying superior ball possession, failed to increase the margin till the 73rd minute when Tapu nodded in a right-side centre by Zahid.
Tapu, however, left the ground with burning skin when the striker was wounded following a slide on the goalline as the quicklime (Calcium Oxide) -- used to mark the line -- came in contact with his groin.
The Brothers backline went casual after the two-goal cushion but it served them a warning as Mehdi Hasan, who fired twice against Muktijoddha in the first round, ran through the whole defence to score an excellent solo goal in the 74th minute. The 19-year-old Mehdi now tops the scorers' list ahead of two-goal Touati Youness and Alfaz Ahmed of Sheikh Russel.
The home side made a late effort to equalise but Brothers survived the pressure to seal the victory for Wasim Iqbal's side in the 89th minute when Manju, who replaced Nigerian forward Michael Oniya, drilled a low angled drive into the far corner from the corner of the penalty box.
"It was a very difficult match for us because we had a long journey from Dhaka and had to play on we ground," said manager Amer Khan, who was on way back to the capital with his players in the evening.
"We have to return tonight because we have a match on Thursday. Also, two of our players were injured after coming in contact with quicklime on the lines. Ariful's condition is not that bad but Tapu has suffered serious injury," said Amer.
The match was played in heavy showers and even the players sitting the in bench were not spared, complained the former Oranges footballer, who was however satisfied with the team's performance.
"We dominated from the start and the early goal helped. It was not the case when we drew with Chittagong Mohammedan. After going two-up, the players looked a bit relaxed and conceded a goal due to defence lapse. We hope to look after these small mistakes in the future," he added.
Siddons takes the far-sighted view
Bangladesh coach Jamie Siddons hardly seemed to be bothered with the 'ICL issue' concentrating instead on the fitness of middle-order batsman Rokibul Hasan.
The Australian showed no signs of disruptions at the exodus of some national players while conducting training with his players on the first day of camp at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur yesterday.
"We have just lost a number of contracted players. It will take a fair bit of thinking to rearrange things. Rokibul Hassan is probably the bigger concern at the moment. He is our best player at the moment and he is still injured," said the Australian when asked about how big a problem it would be to make the new composition after the ICL-cyclone.
Rokibul had injured his right thumb while batting in the first ODI against Australia at the TIO Stadium early in this month to rule him out from the remaining two games but the right-hander is expected to fully recover before next month's home series against New Zealand.
The 43-year old Tigers coach was also upbeat with the upcoming series against the Kiwis.
"I am excited. I am disappointed that we have lost some players. But the players who have come in we are going to look at them anyway. I think we have picked a strong side and hopefully one that is good enough to beat New Zealand," said Siddons.
The ever-smiling coach also spoke highly of his under-pressure captain Mohammad Ashraful by saying that the right-hander is the key figure of his team.
"I had a long chat with him after the last game (in Australia) and he is going to think about it. I said don't do anything in a hurry. I am not sure if things that happened in the last two weeks have had any impact. As far as I know he is still captain and if he hasn't resign and asked for a rest, I think he will be captaining in the New Zealand series. He is the one to do it. He is the key figure of our team," he said when asked about his comments on Ashraful's captaincy in Australia.
"He has comeback pretty fresh. He looks very happy to me. A little bit tired, but he looks quite happy. I am still hoping for the best of Ashraful. In the nets he keeps showing us that he can do the job.
“When he plays, we will be a much better team," said Siddons responding to a question about whether Ashraful should continue as a captain.
Siddons also rubbished the talking of Ashraful's involvement behind the scenes in the departure of some players.
"There is no way I will be saying anything. I think Ash (Mohammad Ashraful) is a pretty honest person. As soon as he was approached, he let everyone know and discussed that openly with them and I think he has made the right decision," he said.
"I don't think (board is trying to protect Ashraful not allowing to talk to the press), he just got off the plane. He has got to be brave in this situation," he added.
Siddons again confirmed that he had informed the matter to the board.
"As soon as I've heard there were talks about it, I have informed the Board. It wasn't names or confirmation. I think the players had an offer given to them and were in talks. Since I knew it, I had informed the board. I e-mailed to chairman of the cricket operations (Gazi Ashraf Hossain)," he said.
Siddons however didn't believe that the players had breached code of conduct by thinking of ICL during the Australia tour.
"I don't think so. I have job offers all the time, I talk and dismiss them. I think the players are no different. Everyone has got to make their decision and unfortunately our boys have chosen to go ICL," he explained.
Bangladesh coach however was not sure whether the ICL issue has made any impact on the Australia trip.
"I think there has to have been some (impact). If the players were thinking about it and with the money that was on offer, it must have had an impact. But you can't say it for sure as Australia played really well and we batted really poorly. We bowled quite well, but it didn't really look to me that focus actually was 100 percent on the game by all of our players.
He also opined on former national skipper Habibul Bashar's allegation against him.
"The player probably shouldn't be speaking like that. I spent two hours with the players today, when they got problems in training. If they want something special, they need to speak up, all our players know that. Habibul Bashar also knows that he should speak up. He is a big boy," he said.
The Australian showed no signs of disruptions at the exodus of some national players while conducting training with his players on the first day of camp at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur yesterday.
"We have just lost a number of contracted players. It will take a fair bit of thinking to rearrange things. Rokibul Hassan is probably the bigger concern at the moment. He is our best player at the moment and he is still injured," said the Australian when asked about how big a problem it would be to make the new composition after the ICL-cyclone.
Rokibul had injured his right thumb while batting in the first ODI against Australia at the TIO Stadium early in this month to rule him out from the remaining two games but the right-hander is expected to fully recover before next month's home series against New Zealand.
The 43-year old Tigers coach was also upbeat with the upcoming series against the Kiwis.
"I am excited. I am disappointed that we have lost some players. But the players who have come in we are going to look at them anyway. I think we have picked a strong side and hopefully one that is good enough to beat New Zealand," said Siddons.
The ever-smiling coach also spoke highly of his under-pressure captain Mohammad Ashraful by saying that the right-hander is the key figure of his team.
"I had a long chat with him after the last game (in Australia) and he is going to think about it. I said don't do anything in a hurry. I am not sure if things that happened in the last two weeks have had any impact. As far as I know he is still captain and if he hasn't resign and asked for a rest, I think he will be captaining in the New Zealand series. He is the one to do it. He is the key figure of our team," he said when asked about his comments on Ashraful's captaincy in Australia.
"He has comeback pretty fresh. He looks very happy to me. A little bit tired, but he looks quite happy. I am still hoping for the best of Ashraful. In the nets he keeps showing us that he can do the job.
“When he plays, we will be a much better team," said Siddons responding to a question about whether Ashraful should continue as a captain.
Siddons also rubbished the talking of Ashraful's involvement behind the scenes in the departure of some players.
"There is no way I will be saying anything. I think Ash (Mohammad Ashraful) is a pretty honest person. As soon as he was approached, he let everyone know and discussed that openly with them and I think he has made the right decision," he said.
"I don't think (board is trying to protect Ashraful not allowing to talk to the press), he just got off the plane. He has got to be brave in this situation," he added.
Siddons again confirmed that he had informed the matter to the board.
"As soon as I've heard there were talks about it, I have informed the Board. It wasn't names or confirmation. I think the players had an offer given to them and were in talks. Since I knew it, I had informed the board. I e-mailed to chairman of the cricket operations (Gazi Ashraf Hossain)," he said.
Siddons however didn't believe that the players had breached code of conduct by thinking of ICL during the Australia tour.
"I don't think so. I have job offers all the time, I talk and dismiss them. I think the players are no different. Everyone has got to make their decision and unfortunately our boys have chosen to go ICL," he explained.
Bangladesh coach however was not sure whether the ICL issue has made any impact on the Australia trip.
"I think there has to have been some (impact). If the players were thinking about it and with the money that was on offer, it must have had an impact. But you can't say it for sure as Australia played really well and we batted really poorly. We bowled quite well, but it didn't really look to me that focus actually was 100 percent on the game by all of our players.
He also opined on former national skipper Habibul Bashar's allegation against him.
"The player probably shouldn't be speaking like that. I spent two hours with the players today, when they got problems in training. If they want something special, they need to speak up, all our players know that. Habibul Bashar also knows that he should speak up. He is a big boy," he said.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
